The health of your workers and the quality of your production line counts on a functional and effective industrial ventilation system. Dampers are an essential component of your system as they help regulate airflow.
There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to damper components. Every industrial ventilation system will have very specific requirements in terms of size, design, and purpose of its dampers. In this article, we will discuss these requirements in more detail.
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Purpose of Dampers in Industrial Ventilation Systems
Industrial ventilation systems play a crucial role in maintaining air quality, controlling temperature, and reducing the risk of fire hazards in various industrial settings. The efficient functioning of these systems depends on the presence of dampers.
Designed to regulate the flow of air, dampers help to control the amount of air entering or leaving specific areas. This provides the necessary ventilation required for a safe and healthy working environment. By controlling the airflow, dampers also help to reduce the energy consumption of the ventilation system, resulting in cost savings for the company.
Different Types of Dampers
There are various types of damper design options for industrial ventilation systems, from simple to complex. Each has its advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, maintenance, and airflow control.
Types by Shape
- Rectangular dampers are the most common design type, as they are easy to install within standard ducting.
- Round dampers are more expensive as they require retrofitting within standard ducting, but they provide better airflow control.
Types by Blade Design
- Single blade dampers are efficient for simple systems in an industrial space with less risk factors to manage.
- Multi-blade dampers offer precise airflow control and are often used in complex industrial ventilation systems.
- Wafer/butterfly dampers are commonly used in industrial applications to provide more control over air leakage and flow.
Types by Function
- Radial vane dampers are usually used for fan inlet applications, and provide enhanced flow and pressure control.
- Backdraft dampers only allow air to flow in one direction and prevent reverse airflow.
Understanding the differences between these damper designs can help you select the right one that meets your facility’s needs.
Key Applications of Industrial Dampers
One important aspect of ventilation control is installing dampers that help mitigate risk factors in an industrial setting. Key applications of these dampers can include fire protection, toxic gas isolation, and pressure relief. Certain types of dampers are required to be included in a ventilation system as per International Building Code and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
Fire protection dampers prevent the spread of fire and smoke in the ventilation system. These dampers are designed to close automatically upon detection of heat to interrupt airflow and restrict the passage of flame. The NFPA 5000 Building Construction and Safety Code mandates where fire dampers must be installed, required ratings, and access and identification requirements.
Toxic gas isolation dampers prevent the release of hazardous gas. Isolation dampers are designed to effectively isolate one or more tiers of filters in a hazardous-duty containment exhaust system. In a biohazard environment, these dampers allow the air filtration system to be shut off for decontamination or filter changing.
Pressure relief dampers relieve excess air pressure in the ventilation system. They are designed to open and relieve air once it has reached a predetermined amount of pressure. This air release helps control the pressure in the zone, even inside the duct to prevent it from being damaged. Pressure relief dampers also prevent the reversal of airflow.
Appropriate Material Selection for Dampers
Industrial ventilation systems require materials that can withstand tough conditions such as high temperatures and corrosion. When selecting materials, it’s important to analyze their properties to ensure they have the necessary durability and longevity.
Stainless steel is a commonly used material in industrial ventilation systems. It is proven to hold up its strength under even drastically high temperatures. It has excellent durability, resistance to corrosion, and flexibility. Stainless steel dampers may be more costly initially, but their low maintenance and long life expectancy demonstrates their value.
Aluminum is a lower cost alternative that is also easy to maintain. Aluminum doesn’t rust and is noted for its corrosion resistance, which allows dampers to have a long life and keep its original aesthetic appeal without deteriorating from the elements. These dampers are flexible, durable and much lighter than stainless steel. However, it is also not as strong as steel and tends to expand in higher temperatures.
Galvanized steel dampers are made of steel coated with zinc, making it corrosion resistant. It is a good option for outside applications since it can endure weather elements more effectively than stainless steel. The galvanized coating also helps protect steel dampers from impacts and abrasions. Though galvanized steel is stronger than aluminum, it will eventually begin to rust.
When choosing materials for your damper components, it’s essential to choose a material appropriate to your application. This will ensure its ability to withstand the industrial environment it will be exposed to.
Proper Installation and Maintenance of Dampers
In industrial settings, ensuring proper ventilation is crucial. Industrial ventilation systems play a significant role in maintaining a safe and healthy work environment by regulating the amount of air that flows through the workplace. Inadequate or improperly installed dampers can lead to potential risks to workers’ health and safety. For example, a poorly installed damper can cause contaminated air to enter the workspace, leading to hazardous inhalation by employees. It is crucial to identify and solve such problems before they arise. Regular maintenance checks of your dampers and other components can help detect any issues promptly. Ensure proper installation of your dampers and schedule regular maintenance to help create a healthy work environment while maintaining the necessary flow of air.
Industrial Ventilation Systems from Eldridge USA
From simply mandating airflow to providing critical safety measures, dampers are an essential component of industrial ventilation systems. Make sure you consider all key factors in order to select the right industrial damper that will suit your needs.
At Eldridge, our experienced personnel can help you determine the type, application, and material for each component of your industrial ventilation system. We provide quality products backed up by our expert team—contact us today for a quote!