Minimize Ductwork Leakage and Maximize Energy Efficiency

The Kingspan KoolDuct System Pairs Quality Ductwork with High-Caliber Insulation to Minimize Air Leakage and Maximize Performance

Reducing operational costs and maximizing building performance is dependent on the best choice of insulation material selected. Considering the options for insulation (e.g. rigid board, mineral wool, spray foam, pre-insulated metal panels, etc.), the selection of the right product can be daunting.

This selection of the best insulation product also applies to ductwork. Insulation of ductwork is critical in ensuring that the air moving through the ductwork remains at the temperature intended for delivery throughout the building. Insulation can be in the form of a liner inside of the duct or as a wrap on the exterior of the duct. When insulation is properly installed in ductwork, condensation and air leakage is minimized, staving off numerous issues.

One particular issue that can arise due to improper insulation installation is air leakage. Air leakage from ductwork significantly increases energy loss in buildings. In fact, up to $25 billion in energy losses has been attributed to duct leakage based on estimates from the U.S. Department of Energy.

The Kingspan KoolDuct System combats air leakage from its ductwork by using premium-performance panels, advanced and innovative fabrication methods, presence of coupling systems, and the provision of a complete offering of accessory items. The Kingspan KoolDuct System ductwork can be fabricated in rectangular sections reaching up to 13 feet (3.93 m) in length which promotes a faster installation rate. Additionally, KoolDuct has been found to weigh up to 72% less than typical standard galvanized sheet metal that has been insulated with mineral fiber. Furthermore, because KoolDuct is comprised of a rigid, phenolic insulation core and not mineral fiber, there is a significant reduction of the chance of fibers entering the airstream through the ductwork.  

The Kingspan KoolDuct System is the first phenolic pre-insulated ductwork in the world to be UL 181 Listed as a Class 1 Air Duct. Because of its outstanding features, the Kingspan KoolDuct System has no problem obtaining a SMACNA Class 3 air leakage rating. Benefits of the product include reduction of energy consumption, operational and service costs, and carbon dioxide emissions.

The Kingspan KoolDuct System is designed to be the best choice for a wide array of construction projects, working in both new and refurbishment projects, as well as residential and commercial construction. The ductwork is designed to be able to handle indoor or outdoor placement. Furthermore, the product is easily hidden above false ceilings or below raised floors. 

KoolDuct for Outdoor Applications

Watch: KoolDuct for Outdoor Applications - The Patented Pro-R Duct System

Kingspan KoolDuct should not be installed outdoors by itself. KoolDuct needs a protective weather barrier to be a successful solution for outdoor ductwork applications. The Pro-R Ductwork system (www.prorduct.com) is a patented product that utilizes KoolDuct within a protective metal weather barrier for the ultimate solution in durability and energy efficiency.

Whole-Life Cost of Ductwork Systems

The Positive Effects of Kingspan Pre-insulated Ductwork on Project Whole-Life Cost

Low capital cost has been a constant top priority in building design in order to boost profits. However, operating cost is another important feature for buildings that are part of rental contracts because they require continuous maintenance and services provided by the lessor. This can also be the case for forward-thinking clients who want to consider sustainability as part of their building design and thus want to minimize service costs of the building over time.

The concept of “whole life cost” encompasses the total cost of the building over its life which includes, but not limited to, capital and operation/maintenance costs. Thus, in order to minimize the whole life cost of a building, products and systems must be selected that are low cost and meet design requirements that will also provide the lowest whole life cost. In consideration of this, the proper selection of ductwork and its insulation are of utmost importance.

KoolDuct Analysis

Cyril Sweett, an independent consultant, was tasked by Kingspan Insulation to assess whole life costs of various ductwork systems in the UK. The analysis showed that the Kingspan KoolDuct System:

• Can save more than 21% over a 30-year life cycle

• Provide a 20% savings in operating and whole life cost

An additional analysis completed by the mechanical and electrical engineering firm, MDA Engineering Inc., examined empirical data collected from two independent buildings owned and operated by Luther Home of Mercy. The findings collected from the analysis showed that the Kingspan KoolDuct System:

• Saved over 16% in capital costs over a 30-year life cycle

• Is predicted to have over a 14% saving on whole life cost

Overall, the Kingspan KoolDuct System is a top product when choosing an insulated HVAC ductwork system where whole life cost is a vital component to project design.

KoolDuct as an Outdoor Duct System

Our patented pro-R duct system utilizes the KoolDuct system as an internal core and integrates it with a durable and weatherproof metal exterior, providing the ultimate solution in efficiency and durability. In addition, TDC connections make it easy for contractors to work with and the various color choices allow for an attractive exterior.