Static Pressure Loss in 12”, 14”, and 16” Non-metallic Flexible Duct

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine the effects of compression on pressure drops in non-metallic flexible duct. Duct sizes of 12”, 14” and 16” diameters were tested at a five different compression ratios (maximum stretch, 4%, 15%, 30% and 45%) following the draw through methodology in ASHRAE Standard 120 -1999 – Methods of Testing to Determine Flow Resistance of Air Ducts and Fittings. With the pressure drop data gathered, equations were developed to approximate the pressure loss at a given air flow rate for a given duct size. The data gathered showed general agreement with previous studies showing an increase in compression ratio leads to an increase in static pressure loss through the duct. It was determined that pressure losses for compression ratios greater than 4% were over four times greater than maximum stretched flexible duct of corresponding duct size. The increased static pressure losses can lead to decreased performance in HVAC systems. The findings of this study add to the existing ASHRAE and industry data for flexible duct with varying compression ratios.