Phenolic Duct Systems: Pros and Cons

Phenolic Duct Systems: Pros and Cons

By: JADE Learning | Jan 06,

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Phenolic insulation is an alternative to galvanized sheet metal. Many HVAC professionals have turned to this option when installing or replacing duct systems. Learn about some of the pros and cons of phenolic duct systems to determine if it might be right for your project.  

Pros of Phenolic Duct Systems

 

Some of the advantages that make a phenolic duct system viable for HVAC professionals include: 

• Lighter weight

  . Phenolic duct systems weigh considerably less than steel or fiberglass systems. The reduced weight of phenolic systems is ideal for replacement projects in old buildings that may have a hard time supporting the weight of a metal system.

• Longer sections

  . Phenolic duct systems come in longer lengths than metal, making them easier and faster to transport and install. 

   

• Saves space

  . Because there&#;s no need to install a separate layer of insulation on a phenolic setup, it can be installed flush against ceilings, 

  walls

  , and floors. 

   

• Easy to modify

  . Phenolic systems are flexible and easy to modify to adapt to unusual designs and improvisations. 

   

• Easy to integrate

  . Phenolic systems can easily integrate with existing metal duct 

  work, 

  so you don&#;t need to tear down an entire system just to replace one particular section. 

   

• Easy to install

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  . Phenolic ducts are a single-fix installation with no need to install insulation as a separate step, saving both time and money during the installation process.

   

For home and building owners, using a phenolic duct system brings a host of additional benefits such as fire and smoke resistance, low air leakage, better air quality, and increased efficiency and energy savings. 

Cons of Phenolic Duct Systems

 

The many benefits of phenolic duct systems easily outweigh the few disadvantages, which include: 

• Strength and durability

  . The alternative, galvanized metal duct systems, are strong and durable and provide a long-lasting system that is difficult to puncture or damage. 

   

• Commonality

  . While phenolic ducts are rising in popularity, traditional metal systems remain the most common. As such, the materials and labor may be easier to come by

   for traditional systems

  . 

   

Improve Your HVAC Knowledge

 

The tradeoffs of phenolic duct systems are just one of the many things you can learn from HVAC continuing education from JADE Learning. Learn more about how JADE Learning helps thousands of HVAC professionals renew their license every year and how we can help you, too.  

It&#;s not an easy switch to mineral wool to address pipework corrosion risk caused by phenolic insulation.

On Low Temperature Hot Water (LTHW) systems the thickness of mineral wool required to achieve the same insulating properties may be considerably more than you think. For example, more than 1.5 times the insulation thickness may be required when using mineral wool compared to phenolic insulation, as illustrated in the figure below. While this may not have significant cost impact, it is important to consider on site constraints such as proximity of the pipework to other equipment or services and space restrictions within risers and laterals.

Phenolic insulation is susceptible to decay and causes pipework corrosion when it gets wet. Therefore, measures should be taken to prevent water ingress.  Pipework should be properly installed to avoid leaks and all welds should be painted with corrosion resistant paint prior to joint insulation and casing work. The insulation should have an integral moisture barrier to prevent the foam from getting wet. Breaks, penetrations, or damage to the foil face should be avoided. This is in line with CIBSE CP1 which states that insulation shall be continuous and close fitting at all joints and include a vapour seal.

For more information, please visit Phenolic Floor Insulation.