Industrial Fabrication for Large Diameter Ductwork

Ductwork is critical to the proper function of process equipment. Dust buildup can cause a number of issues, such as corrosion and wear on machinery. Proper functioning ducts help to alleviate such possibilities. To ensure the highest functioning duct work, the product should be fabricated to client specifications. What follows is a discussion of some key factors that affect large diameter ductwork.

The Role of Large Diameter Ductwork

Ductwork helps to transport dusty air from process equipment, which can be found in mills, manufacturing plants, baghouses and more. Many industrial processes in mills, factories, and other facilities are prone to accumulating a considerable amount of dust. Duct work, especially large diameter, high capacity ductwork, is instrumental in directing the dust particles away from machinery and equipment, thereby preventing any adverse effects. There are different types of ducts available with various characteristics, and the type of duct that is used for each purpose varies depending on a number of factors, including:

• The amount of dust that needs to be carried
• The distance the duct must traverse
• The temperature and other environmental conditions that will be at play

Knowing and understanding these particular factors is critical to selecting and implementing the right duct work for a given facility.

The Importance of Customizing Duct Work to Client Specifications

There are a number of determining factors that affect the ducts that are utilized, however the most important factor is the client’s specifications. For this reason, STI Group carefully consults with clients throughout the entire development and implementation process to ensure that we fully understand their needs and requirements. No one understands the goals and requirements of the duct work better than the clients themselves and STI Group is committed to ensuring that all clients receive exactly what they need.

Different DuctWork Options to Consider

Within the client specifications there are a number of elements that should be accounted for. Some of the main factors include:

• Shape – There are two shapes that are most commonly used:
• Round – Round duct work is a popular option that is efficient and requires fewer stiffeners than other types.
• Rectangular – This option is covered by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) as a proper structural design for ductwork used in an array of industrial applications.
• Diameter – The duct must be large enough to not only transport the dust and material, but to also transport it at a steady rate required for the process. When determining the size of the duct work, the space for necessary stiffeners must also be considered.
• Heat capacity – The duct must be able to withstand warping from the heat of the transported materials.
• Resistance to corrosion – Though corrosion over time is inevitable, there are a few measures that can be put in place to slow it down:
• Specialty, reinforced steel material
• Insulation
• Internal coating

These and other aspects must be carefully considered and outlined to develop quality client specifications that can be well executed by the selected contractors. STI Group understands how important this process is and the far-reaching ramifications it will have the for the facility. That is why we work closely with clients to ensure that their priorities are fully met and that all ductwork is fabricated to specification.