Key Considerations for Stainless Steel Duct Installation
Apr 27,2026
Thorough preparatory work is essential before installing stainless steel ducts. In this specific project, since the central air conditioning system utilizes "smart" sound-attenuating ducts, the critical work regarding the ventilation and air conditioning equipment centers primarily on the installation of these ducts. Consequently, it is imperative to fully grasp the technical characteristics of the smart sound-attenuating ducts, thoroughly review the construction drawings, and understand the interfaces and coordination requirements between this trade (ductwork installation) and other disciplines—such as civil engineering and other specialized trades. Furthermore, one must verify that the elevations, centerlines, reserved openings, and embedded components of the ductwork system comply with installation standards. All necessary auxiliary materials for installation must be gathered; hoisting equipment and other specialized tools must be prepared; and tasks such as marking and positioning the ductwork system must be completed.
**Verification and Inspection of Stainless Steel Ducts:** Once the finished or prefabricated duct sections have been transported to the installation site, they must be inspected and verified against actual site conditions. The sections should then be sorted according to their assigned sequence numbers. Once the dimensions and angles of all components within the ductwork system have been confirmed as accurate, the duct verification process can begin. Connections between individual duct sections are made using loose flanges; these connections are required to be tight and airtight.
The maximum length of stainless steel ductwork hoisted in a single lift must be determined based on the building's structural constraints, the duct's material thickness, the chosen hoisting method, and the configuration of the hoisting equipment. For assembled duct sections, the flanges at both ends can serve as reference points, while the central flange acts as a measurement point; a plumb line should be used to verify that the duct assembly is straight and aligned. If significant deviations are detected, adjustments must be made. Prior to hoisting, a thorough inspection is required to verify the integrity and stability of the duct supports, hangers, and hoisting equipment (including the rigging points and lifting gear). Before lifting begins, a meticulous check must be performed to ensure that components such as lifting beams, pulleys, and ropes are securely fixed and reliably rigged; furthermore, all potential safety hazards within the hoisting zone must be cleared.
During the hoisting process, a "trial lift" must be performed first. Once the duct has been raised to a height of 200–300 mm above the ground, the lifting operation should be paused to allow for a comprehensive re-inspection of the hoisting equipment. Once it has been confirmed that everything is secure and correct, the lifting operation may resume to raise the duct to the required installation height. Only after the air duct has been securely fixed to its supports and brackets may the hoisting ropes be released and the lifting equipment dismantled and removed.
Once the horizontal ductwork has been leveled and securely fastened to its supports and brackets, the installation of the vertical risers may commence. The vertical risers may be installed prior to the installation of the horizontal main ducts; the spacing between supports for the risers shall not exceed 4 meters, and each riser shall be secured by a minimum of two fixing clamps. For horizontal duct installation, the permissible deviation in levelness shall not exceed 3 mm per meter, with a total deviation not exceeding 20 mm; for vertical duct installation, the permissible deviation in plumbness shall not exceed 2 mm per meter, with a total deviation not exceeding 20 mm.
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