HVAC ductwork functionalities rely on pressure and temperature variations between the indoor and outdoor environments. The ducts are the medium of exchange as they carry the air between the two interfaces. Therefore, the optimal functioning of your HVAC conduits relies on the ability of the ducts to handle changes in pressure and temperature. Excellent fabrication techniques and the HVAC supply configurations are essential for ensuring the success of the whole systems. On that note, you can configure your HVAC ductwork in any of the following ways.

Extended Plenum Configuration

Extended plenum configurations feature a primary supply trunk linking directly with the supply plenum or air handler. Smaller distribution ducts connect to this main trunk to enhance coverage and supply of conditioned air to the whole house. Usually, the most efficient systems have a uniformly sized main trunk coupled with the central location of the air conditioning equipment. One straight trunk serves a specific group of conduit outlets, while a second trunk serves another set of autonomous outlets. The objective is to reduce overloading and optimise air circulation.

Spider Configuration

Just as the name suggests, a spider configuration has distinct differences with the extended plenum configuration. In this case, large trunks connect remotely placed mixing boxes to a centralised supply plenum. Additionally, you will also have smaller ducts branching from the mixing boxes. Their role is to take air from the mixing boxes and send it to the individual air supply ducts. The configuration coins its name from multiple ducts running out of different boxes, creating the resemblance of a spider.

Radial System Configuration

Radial system configurations do not have a trunk, run-out or branch duct. Instead, the individual supply outlets connect directly to the air handler using special supply plenums. The connection takes the form of short and direct runs to maximise airflow and deliver excellent air conditioning results. Usually, the air handler is installed centrally so that ducts run radially from it. During installation, the focus is on getting direct short runs rather than symmetry and arrangement of the ducts.

For those who want parallel runouts, the HVAC experts can fit the conduits such that the duct runs sit within the conditioned space. Such a setup ensures minimal heat loss when the conditioned air is in motion. It is also worth noting that the radial system configuration is ideal for single-storey buildings. They enable you to achieve short runs easily.

Contact an HVAC ductwork fabrication professional to learn more.