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Application of fiberglass ducts in commercial buildings
2026-01-09       Source:

As commercial buildings expand in scale and diversify in function, the importance of HVAC systems in the overall building operation is becoming increasingly prominent. As a core component of the air delivery system, the performance of air ducts directly affects the building's energy consumption, indoor comfort, and operation and maintenance costs. Fiberglass ducts, due to their integrated insulation, sound absorption, and lightweight structure, are increasingly widely used in commercial buildings.


I. Main Requirements of Commercial Buildings for Duct Systems


Commercial buildings, such as shopping malls, office buildings, hotels, and mixed-use projects, typically have the following requirements for HVAC duct systems:


Stable air delivery to meet the needs of large spaces


Good thermal insulation performance to reduce heat and cold loss


High noise control requirements to improve the acoustic environment of public spaces


Lightweight system to reduce the burden on the building structure


Controllable construction period for large-scale project implementation


Fiberglass ducts meet these requirements in many performance indicators, making them a key choice for HVAC systems in commercial buildings.


II. Structural and Material Characteristics of Fiberglass Ducts


Fiberglass ducts are typically made primarily of fiberglass material, formed through a composite structure. Their typical characteristics include:


An internal porous fiber structure with excellent sound absorption.


An outer composite reinforcement structure ensures overall duct strength.


The material itself has thermal insulation properties, eliminating the need for additional covering.


Relatively lightweight, suitable for large-scale installation in commercial buildings.


This integrated structure distinguishes fiberglass ducts functionally from traditional metal duct systems.


III. Main Application Scenarios of Fiberglass Ducts in Commercial Buildings


1. Commercial Complexes and Shopping Malls


Large commercial complexes have open interior spaces and high pedestrian traffic, requiring high stability and noise control from their air conditioning systems. The application of fiberglass ducts in supply and return air systems effectively reduces airflow noise within the ductwork while minimizing energy loss, contributing to an improved overall user experience.


2. Office Buildings and Office Complexes


In office buildings, energy efficiency and comfort are particularly important for HVAC systems that operate for extended periods. Fiberglass ducts offer excellent thermal insulation and sound absorption, helping to reduce heat loss and improve the quietness of office environments.


3. Hotels and Public Service Buildings


Hotels, convention centers, and other buildings have high requirements for indoor acoustic environments. Fiberglass ducts can suppress noise transmission during air transport, contributing to a relatively quiet public space environment.


4. Commercial Building Equipment Rooms and Supporting Areas


In air conditioning rooms, equipment floors, and technical mezzanines, fiberglass ducts can be used to connect main air ducts to terminal equipment, balancing insulation, noise reduction, and ease of construction.


IV. Advantages of Fiberglass Ducts in Commercial Buildings


1. Reduced System Energy Consumption


Fiberglass ducts possess inherent thermal insulation capabilities, reducing heat loss during air transport and improving the operational efficiency of HVAC systems in commercial buildings.


2. Improved Indoor Acoustic Environment


The porous fiberglass structure can absorb some airflow noise, reducing noise transmission within the duct and positively impacting the comfort of public spaces in commercial buildings.


3. Facilitates Structural Weight Reduction


Compared to traditional metal duct systems, fiberglass ducts are lighter overall, reducing the burden on the hoisting structure and making them suitable for large-span commercial buildings.


4. Simplifies Construction Process


Integrated design reduces the need for secondary insulation construction, shortening the construction cycle of commercial projects and improving construction efficiency.


V. Precautions in Application


When applying fiberglass ducts in commercial buildings, it is necessary to design rationally based on specific project conditions:


Select appropriate duct specifications according to wind speed and system pressure


Properly handle interface sealing to ensure system airtightness


Strengthen external surface protection design in special areas


Follow relevant construction and acceptance specifications to ensure safe use


Scientific design and standardized construction are important prerequisites for ensuring the stable operation of fiberglass duct systems.


Overall, the application of fiberglass ducts in commercial buildings helps to achieve a comprehensive effect of insulation, noise reduction, and structural optimization while ensuring air delivery efficiency. As commercial buildings continue to increase their requirements for energy conservation and comfort, the application value of fiberglass ducts in commercial HVAC systems will continue to emerge.