The environmental impact of fabrication of HVAC ductwork, although small in
comparison to many industries, it is a significant contributor to air pollution. If you might doubt this, visit any sheet metal shop
and wipe your hand across the floor...even if the shop has a ventilation
system, you will likely have a hand covered with glass fibers and soot. Burning contributes to
most processes used for cutting metal and hence, much of the
environmental issues stem from this process. New cleaner cutting methods,
such as water jets, are available, but the costs associated with these low
pollution methods are very costly and out of reach for almost all contractors
in the HVAC industry.
Another impact is energy from utility. Sheet metal fabrication contributes to this
in two ways; one being the energy consumed by the machinery used in the
fabrication of metal and two, the costs associated with heating the space
required to house a sheet metal shop. Both the process...and the space
required for the process, require energy. KoolDuct and IFP (Insulated
Foam Panel) fabrication methods do not require nearly as much energy to
fabricate and the space for the processes required for production of the
product is much less, hence, energy savings.
Attached I have included (2) studies relating to experiences at Commercial
Comfort Systems, Inc. in Maumee,
Ohio. In these studies, it
becomes apparent why KoolDuct or IFP fabrication process are
advantageous. Reducing environmental impacts...can and does have
an impact on your bottom line. Koolduct provides advantages for the
environment, your customer and your own sustainability. (SEE .pdf files below photos.)
Sheet Metal Shop Costs.pdf (113.24 kb)
KoolDuct Shop Costs.pdf (125.32 kb)