S E C T I O N EG

Engineering Guide
Air Distribution
Please refer to the Price Engineer’s HVAC Handbook
for more information on Air Distribution.
 Air Distribution
Engineering Guide

Space Air Diffusion

La selección adecuada de los dispositivos de

difusión de aire requiere conocimientos Figure 1: Difusión del aire del espacio con refrigeración
básicos de la mecánica de la distribución del aérea.
Temperature
aire de la sala. Las figuras 1 y 2 ilustran las 0
interacciones de los principales factores que RETURN Coanda Effect SUPPLY
influyen en la distribución del aire de la sala.
Primary Air
El aire primario se define como el aire 6 ft [1.8m]

Drop

Height, ft [m]
acondicionado descargado por la salida de Throw
AIR DISTRIBUTION ENGINEERING GUIDE

Natural Convection
suministro. Este aire proporciona la fuerza
motriz para el movimiento del aire de la Induced Occupied
[Link] Air Room Air Zone
El aire total se define como la mezcla de aire
primario y aire de la habitación arrastrado
que está bajo la influencia de las
condiciones de salida del suministro. Esto se
considera comúnmente como el aire dentro Primary Air Total Air
de una envoltura de velocidad de 50 fpm
[0.25 m / s] (o mayor). La diferencia de
temperatura entre el aire total y el aire de la
habitación crea efectos flotantes que hacen Figure 2: Space air diffusion with overhead heating
que el aire de suministro frío caiga y el aire
caliente levantar. Temperature
0
Throw Coanda Effect SUPPLY
El tiro es la distancia desde el centro de
la cara de salida a un punto donde la
velocidad de la corriente de aire se 6 ft [1.8m]
reduce a una velocidad específica,
generalmente 150 [0.75],100 [0.50] o 50 Stagnant Air
Occupied

Height, ft [m]
fpm [0.25 m / s] (Figura 3).
Zone
Estas velocidades se conocen como Induced
Natural Convection

velocidad terminal y, por lo tanto, se indican Room Air

como T150 [T0.75], T100 [T0.50], T50 [T0.
25] respectivamente. El tiro es
principalmente una función del flujo de masa
y la velocidad de salida y, por lo tanto, Primary Air Total Air
RETURN

puede reducirse disminuyendo cualquiera de

estos valores.
Drop Figure 3: Throw/spread
La caída del aire total frío, como se muestra en la
Figura 1, es el resultado de la propagación vertical 10
de la corriente de aire debido al arrastre del aire
de la habitación, y el efecto de flotabilidad debido
a las diferencias de densidad entre el paquete de 5
Spread, Feet

aire total y el aire de la habitación primaria 50 fpm

22½º
circundante. . El término densidad es muy Typical 100 fpm
importante ya que la caída depende 0º 0
Envelope
principalmente del flujo de masa del aire total. La 22½º
caída puede minimizarse extendiendo el aire 150 fpm
5
uniformemente sobre la superficie del techo,
reduciendo así el flujo de masa por unidad de
área de superficie. 221/2° 10
Spread Deflection 0 10 20 30 40
La expansión de una salida se define como Throw, Feet
la divergencia de la corriente de aire en un
plano horizontal o vertical y es una función esta es el área de ocupación, es deseable
de la geometría de la salida (Figura 3). Manual para una explicación más detallada.
Un buen diseño de distribución de aire hace evitar velocidades de tiro excesivas y
Surface Effect uso de las superficies de las habitaciones diferencias de temperatura dentro de este
La caída también se puede reducer de manera para ayudar a mantener el suministro de aire espacio.
efectiva mediante el uso de la superficie del fuera de la zona ocupada.
techo circundante. Cuando la velocidad del aire Occupied Zone
de suministro es suficientemente alta, se crea la zona ocupada se define generalmente
un área de presión negativa o baja entre la como el área dentro de 6 pies [1.8 m] del
masa de aire en movimiento y el techo en o piso y no dentro de 1 pie [0.3 m] de los
cerca de la salida de aire de suministro. Esta límites del espacio (paredes, etc.). Como
área de baja presión hace que la masa de aire esta es el área de ocupación, es deseable
en movimiento se adhiera y fluya cerca de la evitar velocidades de tiro excesivas y
superficie del techo. Este principio es conocido diferencias de temperatura dentro de este
como el efecto Coanda. Consulte el Capítulo 2: espacio
Mecánica de fluidos en la HVAC de Price All Metric dimensions ( ) are soft conversion. © Copyright Price Industries Limited 2011.
Engineer.
 Air Distribution
Engineering Guide

Space Air Diffusion

El movimiento del aire de la sala se crea por su
Stratification dirigir un chorro de aire caliente a alta
inducción gradual hacia las corrientes de aire
Los sistemas de ventilación de mezcla generalmente velocidad sobre la superficie de la pared
primarias y totales.
suministran aire de manera tal que todo el volumen de para reducir la diferencia entre la
la habitación se mezcla completamente. El aire frío de Es esta mezcla constante la que proporciona los temperatura de la superficie y la del aire
suministro sale de la salida a alta velocidad, mecanismos para la transferencia de calor entre el de la habitación. Mantener las
suministro y el aire de la habitación. Cuando no se temperaturas de la superficie lo más cerca
induciendo el aire de la habitación para proporcionar
produce movimiento de aire (generalmente como posible del espacio como sea posible,
la mezcla y la ecualización de la temperatura. Como
resultado de velocidades de salida insuficientes o también minimiza el potencial de
toda la habitación está completamente mezclada, las una ubicación de salida deficiente), se forma una transferencia de calor por radiación entre la
variaciones de temperatura en todo el espacio son capa estancada de aire de la habitación. Por encima superficie y los ocupantes, lo que resulta en
pequeñas. Vea la curva de gradiente de temperatura de esa capa (o debajo en el caso de calentamiento una mejor respuesta de confort. Tenga en
en la Figura 1. Esta variación en la temperatura del por encima de la cabeza), no existe una cuenta que el aumento de la temperatura de
aire de la sala desde el piso hasta el techo se conoce transferencia de calor adecuada y se produce una la superficie del perímetro también

ENGINEERING GUIDE - AIR DISTRIBUTION

como estratificación. Cuando se introduce aire estratificación de la temperatura. Esto se ilustra aumentará la pérdida de calor del edificio y
caliente con un difusor de techo, se puede esperar mediante las curvas de gradiente de temperatura debe considerarse en los cálculos de carga.
cierta estratificación debido a la menor densidad del que se muestran en la Figura 2. Siempre es
aire de suministro caliente (consulte la curva de Return
deseable mantener la capa de estancamiento sobre
gradiente de temperatura en la Figura 2). Si la La entrada de aire de retorno tiene muy poco
la zona ocupada en el enfriamiento y tan cerca del
estratificación puede limitarse a ocurrir por encima de efecto en la difusión del aire de la habitación,
piso como sea posible cuando se calienta desde
la zona ocupada, no es motivo de preocupación desde arriba. independientemente del tipo de entrada o la
un punto de vista de comodidad. La estratificación en ubicación. Sin embargo, las entradas de aire
Convection Currents de retorno deben ubicarse a una distancia
la zona ocupada debe limitarse de acuerdo con el
Estándar 55 de ASHRAE. Consulte el Capítulo 4 — El paquete de aire total puede ser fácilmente suficiente de la salida de suministro para que
Calidad ambiental interior en el Manual de HVAC del influenciado por varios factores dentro del no se produzca un cortocircuito en el
espacio. Uno de estos factores que ocurre suministro de aire. También puede ser
ingeniero de precios para obtener una explicación de
en las zonas exteriores de los edificios son conveniente ubicar los retornos en la zona de
cómo la estratificación de la temperatura afecta la
las corrientes de convección naturales que estancamiento para eliminar el aire caliente o
comodidad. resultan de una pared exterior caliente frío no deseado. Para el enfriamiento, un alto
Room Air durante el enfriamiento (Figura 1) o una retorno de la pared lateral o del techo
Finalmente, llegamos al medio a través del cual se pared exterior fría durante el calentamiento eliminará el aire caliente del espacio (Figura
produce toda la transferencia de calor metabólico y, (Figura 2). El movimiento ascendente del 1). Para calentar un retorno bajo de la pared
por lo tanto, es el factor más crítico para controlar la aire en las proximidades de la superficie lateral se eliminará el aire caliente y
comodidad humana: el aire de la habitación. El aire caliente tiende a oponerse al movimiento estancado (Figura 2).
de la habitación consta de todo el resto del aire total del aire en el enfriamiento por encima
dentro del espacio que no está incluido en el paquete de la cabeza. Esto puede actuar para reducir
de aire total. La distribución de aire adecuada intenta los valores de lanzamiento de salida o
acondicionar el aire de la habitación para mantener incluso hacer que el aire total más frío salga
las velocidades y temperaturas de tiro dentro del del techo y cree una caída en el espacio. El
rango de comodidad, tal como se define en el movimiento hacia abajo del aire frío cerca de GREEN TIP
Capítulo 4: Calidad ambiental interior en el Manual una superficie fría (Figura 2) puede crear Location of supply and return outlets to
HVAC de Price Engineer. Esta velocidad del aire corrientes de aire frío dentro del espacio eliminate short circuiting will increase
dentro de la zona ocupada se conoce como ocupado. En el caso de calentamiento por the ventilation effectiveness.
velocidad de la habitación. encima de la cabeza, la única forma efectiva
de minimizar estas corrientes de aire es

Selection Fundamentals - Performance Factors

Air Pattern Throw Drop
Las salidas de aire están disponibles con una El tiro es, por definición, la distancia a la que Cada vez que se introduce aire frío en un
variedad de opciones de patrón de aire. Algunos se proyecta el aire desde el centro de la cara espacio más cálido, su tendencia natural será un
de salida. Cuando se discute el lanzamiento, movimiento hacia abajo. La distancia vertical a la
difusores de techo pueden seleccionarse con un
debemos referirlo a una velocidad del aire que se extiende el chorro de aire por debajo del
patrón horizontal de 1, 2, 3 o 4 vías (Figura 4). El
específica, que se llama velocidad terminal. techo se denomina caída (Figura 5). Al igual que
diseño de la habitación y la ubicación disponible del en el lanzamiento, discutimos la caída
difusor determinan qué patrón se selecciona. Algunas En la mayoría de los casos, el lanzamiento se
refiere a velocidades terminales de 150 referenciada a una velocidad terminal específica.
salidas de techo también ofrecen una opción de Para simplificar, usamos las mismas tres
patrón vertical para aplicaciones de techo alto o [0.75], 100 [0.50] y 50 fpm [0.25m / s]. Estas
velocidades se indican como T150 [T0.75], velocidades terminales que para el lanzamiento:
calefacción. Los difusores de ranura de cámara a 150 [0.75], 100 [0.50] y 50 fpm [0.25 m / s]. Si el
menudo están disponibles con patrón de aire T100 [T0.50] y T50 [T0.25] respectivamente.
suministro de aire se proyecta en el espacio
horizontal o vertical de 1 o 2 vías. Las rejillas El tiro es principalmente una función del
ocupado se producirán corrientes incómodas. La
laterales pueden configurarse para patrones rectos o volumen de aire que se descarga por la salida
caída se puede minimizar utilizando el efecto de
extendidos, mientras que las rejillas lineales están de aire y la tasa de inducción de la salida de superficie de los techos. Las salidas ubicadas en
disponibles en varias opciones de patrones aire. Por lo tanto, el lanzamiento puede o cerca del techo exhibirán menos caída que las
angulares. El rendimiento de la salida de aire y el reducirse disminuyendo el flujo de aire desde salidas ubicadas en ductos expuestos.
nivel de confort resultante en el espacio están muy la salida o seleccionando una salida de aire Normalmente, la caída aumentará a medida que
influenciados por el tipo de patrón de aire con una alta tasa de inducción. aumenta el volumen de aire y, posteriormente, el
seleccionado. lanzamiento de salida. La propagación vertical
del chorro de aire.

EG-3
© Copyright Price Industries Limited 2011. All Metric dimensions ( ) are soft conversion.
Imperial dimensions are converted to metric and rounded to the nearest millimetre.
 Air Distribution
Engineering Guide

Selection Fundamentals - Performance Factors

increases with distance travelled. Reducing the Figure 4: Air patterns
supply air volume and increasing the supply air
temperature will reduce the drop. One caution
regarding reducing air volume too low is that the
Plan View Plan View Plan View Plan View
air jet may detach from the ceiling and fall into
the occupied zone. This condition is known as
'dumping' and should be avoided.
Spread
AIR DISTRIBUTION ENGINEERING GUIDE

Spread is the horizontal width of the air jet Diffuser

being discharged by the air outlet. Delivering
the air in a spread pattern tends to reduce both
the throw and the drop of an air outlet. As with
the throw and drop, the same three terminal
velocities are used to discuss spread: 150 [0.75],
100 [0.50] and 50 fpm [0.25 m/s]. Dissipating the
air stream over a wider area increases Plan View Section View Section View Section View
entrainment and reduces the mass flow per unit
surface area (Figure 5).
Pressure Drop
Every air outlet produces a pressure loss
when air is passed through it. The magnitude of
the pressure loss will vary depending on the
model, size and geometry of the air outlet,
and is measured in in. w.g. [Pa]. Pressure drop Circular Horizontal Vertical Plenum Slot, 2 Way Plenum Slot, 1 Way
will increase proportionally with air flow. The
pressure drop of the air outlet must be taken
into account when calculating the system
pressure when selecting the supply fan.
Noise Level Plan View Plan View Section View Section View
Typically, the noise level of an air outlet is
rated with a Noise Criteria (NC) sound
pressure value based on an industry
standard 10 dB default for room absorption. This
NC value assumes an average room and
approximate distance of 5 ft [1.5 m] from a single
source. For a detailed explanation of the NC
rating method see Chapter 7— Basics of Sidewall Straight Sidewall Spread Floor 0° Deflection Floor 30° Deflection
Acoustics in the Price Engineer's HVAC
Handbook.
An air outlet's noise level (NC rating) is
directly proportional to the air volume
supplied through the outlet, with the sound Figure 5: Drop (left), spread (right)
increasing as more air is supplied. Larger size
outlets generally are quieter at the same air Vertical Cross Section Plan View
flow than smaller sizes of the same model due to
higher free area and/or lower inlet velocity.
Outlets should be selected so that the resultant Angle of Discharge
NC level does not exceed the ASHRAE
recommended values for the particular space
being considered.
Terminal
Velocity
Envelope Spread

Drop Throw

Vertical Spread

Throw

EG-4 Imperial dimensions are converted to metric and rounded to the nearest millimetre.

All Metric dimensions ( ) are soft conversion. © Copyright Price Industries Limited 2011.
Air Distribution
Engineering Guide

Air Outlets
An important step in efficient space comfort
conditioning is the proper selection of air Figure 6: Double deflection supply grille Figure 7: Return grille
outlets. This section presents generalized
descriptions and characteristics of the types
of grilles, registers and diffusers com‑ monly

ENGINEERING GUIDE - AIR DISTRIBUTION

used in commercial air distribution applications
today.
Grilles and Registers
The term grille is commonly applied to any air
outlet or intake that consists of a square or
rectangular face and neck and whose facial
appearance is made up of stationary or
adjustable louvers which may be used to deflect
the air.
A register is simply a grille which incorporates an Figure 8: Upward deflection
integral damper for air volume control.
Supply grilles and registers usually have
adjustable louvers and are available in single or
double deflection models.
The single deflection type includes one set of
blades in the horizontal or vertical orientation.
Air pattern is adjustable in one plane only. 20º Upward Deflection
The double deflection type includes two sets
of blades in both the horizontal and vertical
orientation (Figure 6), with air pattern being
adjustable in both the horizontal and vertical Figure 9: Linear bar grille, 1/4 in. Figure 10: Linear bar grille, 1/2 in.
planes. Adjustment of the vertical blades [6mm] spacing [13 mm] spacing
provides spread control of the air pattern,
reducing both throw and drop (Figure 3).
Adjustment of the horizontal blades provides
control over the deflection of the air pattern
(Figure 8). Air can be directed up or down to
suit the application.
Supply grilles or registers are most
commonly mounted in the sidewall within 2 ft
[610 mm] of a ceiling. Return grilles or registers
(Figure 7) usually have a fixed blade or core
and can be located in the
sidewall or ceiling. Figure 11: Sidewall application Figure 12: Sidewall application
Linear Bar Grille
The linear bar grille is normally used where an
architectural blend of the grille to its
surroundings is required (Figure 9 and
Figure 10). These grilles may be mounted in
the sidewall, sill or floor, and may be used for
Sidewall Application Sill Application
supply or return. Louvers are fixed with 1/4 in. [6 30º Upward Deflection 15º Deflection
mm] or 1/2 in. [13 mm] bar spacing and 0°, 15° or
30° deflection. See Figure 11 and Figure
12 for mounting examples.
Linear Slot Diffuser
Linear slot diffusers incorporate adjustable
pattern controllers in a multi‑ slot configuration. Slot
sizes are available in ½ in. [13 mm],
¾ in. [19 mm] or 1 in. [25 mm] widths with a
choice of one to ten slots. Adjustable pattern Figure 13: Linear slot diffuser
controllers allow horizontal left, horizontal
right or vertical discharge for maximum
flexibility. Typically used in ceiling
installations, the linear slot diffuser is
architecturally appealing, particularly when
supplied in continuous lengths.

EG-5
© Copyright Price Industries Limited 2011. All Metric dimensions ( ) are soft conversion.
Imperial dimensions are converted to metric and rounded to the nearest millimetre.
 Air Distribution
Engineering Guide

Air Outlets
Round Ceiling Diffuser Figure 14: Figure 15: Figure 16:
Round ceiling diffusers consist of several Round ceiling diffuser Square ceiling diffuser Louvered face diffuser
concentric cones suspended below the
ceiling line by an outer cone (Figure 14).
Neck sizes are available from 6 to 36 in. [152
AIR DISTRIBUTION ENGINEERING GUIDE

to 914 mm], allowing a wide range of air volume

selections. Adjustable models are available to
provide either horizontal or vertical air pattern.
The round diffuser’s excellent horizontal pattern
makes it ideal for variable air volume applications
or exposed duct applications. Due to the
availability of large neck sizes, the round ceiling Figure 17: Figure 18: Figure 19:
diffuser is often used where high flow capacities Round plaque diffuser Square plaque diffuser Perforated ceiling diffuser
are required (e.g. supermarkets, gymnasiums,
halls, industrial applications).
Square Ceiling Diffuser
Square ceiling diffusers consist of several
concentric square cones and a round neck
(Figure 15). Air pattern is a uniform 360°
horizontal pattern which is maintained at
extremely low flows, making it ideal for
variable air volume applications. Sizes are
Figure 20: Figure 21: Figure 22:
available to suit standard ceiling modules 12 in.
Round Twist Diffuser Plenum slot diffuser Light troffer diffuser
x 12 in., 20 in. x 20 in., 24 in. x 24 in.
[300 mm x 300 mm, 500 mm x 500 mm, 600 mm x
600 mm]. Adjustable pattern models are
available for horizontal or vertical air pattern
setting.
Louver Face Diffuser
Louver face diffusers are available with a
square or rectangular face composed of a
fixed modular core (Figure 16). This modular
design allows for the selection of 1, 2, 3 or 4 way air Perforated Ceiling Diffuser Plenum Slot Diffuser
pattern. Available neck sizes are square or
rectangular. In addition to the design flexibility, Perforated ceiling diffusers are available with These diffusers consist of a factory
the louver face diffuser is popular with architects a square or rectangular face supplied through a fabricated plenum with integral pattern
because the louvers do not protrude below the round or square neck (Figure 19). controllers for vertical or horizontal air
ceiling line. Horizontal air pattern is achieved with deflection pattern adjustment. Plenum slot diffusers are
vanes located at the diffuser face or in the easy to install as they are designed to lay‑ in
Round Plaque Diffuser [Link] vanes can be configured to achieve 1, on suspended ceiling grids. This feature also
Round plaque diffusers consist of a plaque 2, 3 or 4 way air pattern. The perforated face provides flexibility for future tenant revisions.
mounted inside an outer frame with a round inlet blends in very well with the acoustical tiles of Diffusers are available in lengths ranging from
(Figure 19). Standard round inlet sizes are typical suspended ceiling systems, and is 2 ft to 5 ft [610 mm to 1524 mm] and offer a
available: 8 in. [203 mm], 10 in. [254 therefore preferred by architects. Perforated choice of multiple slot widths ranging from 1/2 in.
mm], 12 in. [305 mm], and 14 in. [356 mm]. There return units (both ducted and non‑ ducted) are [13 mm] to 1½ in. [38 mm].
are three available field adjustable plaque also available to match the supply units. Light Troffer Diffuser
positions that allow this diffuser to go from a Radial/Twist Diffusers
fully horizontal throw to a fully vertical throw. Light troffer diffusers are designed to
This adjustability makes this diffuser ideal for Radial/twist diffusers consist of a circular or integrate with commercially available light
VAV as well as cooling and heating applications. square face with multiple air vanes, either fixtures in suspended ceiling systems (Figure
The horizontal pattern is discharged in a 360° fixed or adjustable, and a round neck. 22).The troffer consists of a plenum section, air
circular pattern. Diffusers produce a horizontal or vertical slot and pattern controller. Troffers are
twisting pattern for rapid mixing of the room air in available as single‑ or double‑ sided (saddle)
Square Plaque Diffusers heating or cooling modes. A distribution units. Light troffer diffusers produce an excellent
Square plaque diffusers are comprised of a plenum or the outer cone can be connected horizontal air pattern, ideal for VAV applications.
square plaque situated in a backpan with a directly to a round duct. Diffusers can be This is also the most efficient diffuser in terms of
round inlet (Figure 18). The air pattern installed in a T‑ bar ceiling or exposed producing optimum comfort conditions. Since
produced is a uniform 360° circular pattern which mounted to the ductwork. Adjustable air the air slot is very narrow and integrated with the
is maintained even at very low velocities, patterns can be manually, thermally or light fixture, it is also appealing from an
making it ideally suited for VAV systems. Sizes electronically controlled depending on a architectural standpoint.
are available to suit standard ceiling modules: 12 room thermostat signal. Models are available
in. x 12 in., 20 in. x 20 for both commercial and industrial
in., 24 in. x 24 in. [300 mm x 300 mm, 500 mm x applications.
500 mm, 600 x 600 mm]. Panels are also
available to fit in different grid sizes.

EG-6 Imperial dimensions are converted to metric and rounded to the nearest millimetre.

All Metric dimensions ( ) are soft conversion. © Copyright Price Industries Limited 2011.
Air Distribution
Engineering Guide

Selection Procedures
Throw
Figure 23: Throw of outlet
Achieving the proper throw for a specific application is critical to proper
outlet [Link] data is usually presented at terminal velocities of 150
[0.75], 100 [0.50] and 50 fpm [0.25 m/s]. Generally outlets should be
Throw = A + B

ENGINEERING GUIDE - AIR DISTRIBUTION

selected so that the throw at 50 fpm [0.25 m/s] terminal velocity equals the
distance from the outlet to the boundary of the conditioned space. In most
cases this criteria will produce acceptable results. B
When an air stream strikes a surface it tends to spread and follow the
A
surface until the velocity dissipates. The total horizontal and vertical
distance travelled by the air stream is equal to the tabulated throw of the outlet
(Figure 23). For high ceiling applications it may be desirable for the throw Occupied Zone
to exceed the space boundary (ceiling) and travel down the wall toward
the occupied zone. However, penetration of the occupied zone should
usually be avoided.
In addition to physical boundaries created by walls or partitions,
boundaries can be created by the collision of two air patterns
(Figure 24). Where two patterns will meet, the outlets should be Figure 24: Boundaries created by two air patterns
selected so that the throw is equal to one half the distance between the
outlets. For high ceiling applications it may be desirable for the throw to
travel downward toward the occupied zone. Throw is again equal to the
horizontal and vertical distance travelled by the air stream.
It should be noted that most catalog throw data is presented for B
isothermal conditions (i.e., supply air temperature equals room
temperature). During cooling the denser supply air will shorten the horizontal A
throw to approximately 75% of tabulated values (multiply by 0.75), assuming
a temperature differential of approximately 15 °F [7.5 °C]. Occupied Zone
The cataloged throw data for most diffusers and grilles is developed with the
outlet mounted in or adjacent to a ceiling. The ceiling or Coanda effect
allows the supply air jet to be in contact with the ceiling longer, reducing
induction of room air and consequently resulting in a longer throw than if
the outlet was mounted in free space. If an air outlet is mounted in free Figure 25: Ceiling diffuser free space mounting
space or more than 2 ft [610 mm] from a surface, the cataloged throw data
should be reduced by approximately 30% (multiply by 0.70) (Figure 25
and Figure 26). Suspended Ceiling

When selecting outlets for VAV application, both minimum and

maximum air quantities must be considered for throw. Although many Greater than
2 ft [610 mm]
models of outlets provide excellent horizontal air pattern at extremely low
flows, throws may be reduced below acceptable limits.
In many applications it is desirable to limit the throw due to ceiling layout,
walls, partitions or other boundaries which may obstruct the air pattern
and cause unacceptable velocities in the occupied zone. There are
several methods which may be used to minimize throw from outlets,
including spreading the air pattern, reducing air volume per inlet and
selecting the appropriate air pattern. More information on these
methods will be presented on the following pages.
Figure 26: Sidewall outlet free space mounting
PRODUCT TIP
Suspended Ceiling
Slot diffusers and light troffer diffusers tend to maintain
reasonable throws at low air volumes, and are therefore a good
choice for VAV applications. Greater than
18 in [457 mm]

EG-5
© Copyright Price Industries Limited 2011. All Metric dimensions ( ) are soft conversion.
Imperial dimensions are converted to metric and rounded to the nearest millimetre.
 Air Distribution
Engineering Guide

Selection Procedures
Spread
Figure 27: Plan view of spread vs. throw
Spreading the air pattern dissipates the air stream over a wider area and
increases entrainment. This reduces the mass flow per unit surface area, 0°Deflection
which in turn reduces throw. Some outlets are designed to produce a
22.5°Deflection
spread pattern due to their geometry, while others such as supply grilles
AIR DISTRIBUTION ENGINEERING GUIDE

have adjustable vanes (Figure 27). Spreading the air is an effective way 45°Deflection
of reducing throw to avoid air pattern collisions with boundaries or other
air jets. 8 ft [2.4 m]
14 ft [4.3 m]
15 ft [4.6 m]

PRODUCT TIP
Some mmoo ddeleslsof o pflen pulemnuslm ot dsilfofut sd erifsfu
an
sedrlsineaanrdslo
litnpelaernusmlost a prle
cuomnstarurectceodnw
stirtuhca
tesdlo
wpitehdasshlou pleddesrhpoleunlduem
r .
p Tlehneusm
lo.p
Tehde
sploepneudmplcerneuam
tecsreaatneastaun raaltusrparlesapdreinag
dinogf otfhteheaa
irirppattern, substantially
reducing the throw.
Figure 28: Continuous grille

PRODUCT TIP
Louvered face supply grilles with adjustable blades provide a
measure of flexibility for the designer and building operator as the
throw and spread of the outlet can be field adjusted to account for
Throw
changes in air volume, occupancy or ceiling layout.

Air Volume
Throw is directly related to mass flow, therefore a reduction in air
volume per outlet will reduce the throw. This can be achieved by
utilizing more outlets with less air volume per outlet. For linear Figure 29: Active and inactive sections
diffusers or grilles, the same thing can be achieved by dividing the
outlet into active and inactive sections (Figure 29). Each active
section handles a smaller quantity of air, thereby reducing the throw. In
order to effectively separate the air pattern, the outlet should be divided by
minimum inactive length (Table 1). Throw
Air Pattern
The outlet air pattern has a large influence on the throw. 1 way patterns
tend to have the longest throw, while 4 way or round patterns have the
shortest. The diffuser model will also affect the throw. SeeTable 2 for a
comparison of ceiling diffuser throw at equal air volume for various diffuser Active/Inactive Sections
models and air [Link] layout of the ceiling and availability of
installation location will determine the optimum air pattern for the
application.
Mapping
Table 1: Plan view of active and inactive sections
One method of selecting outlets based on throw is known as
'mapping.' The cataloged throw is referenced and corrected for cooling if
conditioned air is [Link] corrected throw is plotted on the reflected Length of Active Sections, ft [m] 1 [0.3] 5 [1.5]
10 [3]
ceiling plan and checked for interference with obstructions, walls or Length of Inactive Sections, ft [m] 1 [0.3] 2 [0.6] 3 [0.9]
other air jets.
Table 2: Ceiling DiffuserThrow Comparison ‑ 24 in. x 24 in. module [610
mm x 610 mm], 380 cfm, 700 fpm neck velocity, isothermal conditions, 50
fpm [0.25 m/s] terminal velocity

Diffuser Type Throw Distance, ft [m]

Square Cone 10 [3.0]
Round Cone 9 [2.7]
Perforated 4 way 14 [4.3]
Perforated 1 way 33 [10.1]
Modular Core 4 way 24 [7.3]
Modular Core 1 way 36 [11]

EG-8 All Metricdimensions

Imperial dimensionsare
( ) are soft conversion.
converted to metric and rounded to the nearest millimetre. © Copyright Price Industries Limited 2011.
Air Distribution
Engineering Guide

Example 1
A Model 520 size 6 in. x 5 in. supply grille operating at 150 cfm has been selected tosupply a 10ft x 15 ft room as illustrated in Figure 27. What is the best
deflection setting of the diffuser blades if conditioned cool air is supplied?

ENGINEERING GUIDE - AIR DISTRIBUTION

9 ft Supply Grille 10 ft

SMALL OFFICE

15 ft

Referring to the catalog page we determine the 50 fpm throw to be : 0°

deflection ‑ 22 ft isothermal or (22 x .75) = 17 ft cooling
22° deflection ‑ 18 ft isothermal or (18 x .75) = 14 ft cooling
45° deflection ‑ 11 ft isothermal or (11 x .75) = 8 ft cooling
As seen from the pattern diagrams in Figure 25, the 22° deflection provides the best coverage and would be the optimum selection.

Table 3: Model 520 series, 6 in. x 5 in. supply grille performance data

Performance Data - Model 520 Series, 6 in. x 5 in. Supply Grille

NC 20 30
Core Velocity, fpm 500 600 700 800 1000 1200
Velocity Pressure .016 .022 .030 .040 .062 .090
0 .038 .052 .071 0.94 .146 .212
Size Total Pressure 22½ .045 .063 .085 .114 .176 .256
45 .067 .093 .0126 .168 .261 .379
cfm 75 90 105 120 150 180
Ac = NC - - 15 19 26 31
0.15 ft2
0 7‑ 10‑ 16 8‑ 12‑ 1 9‑ 13‑ 19 11‑ 14‑ 2 13‑ 16‑ 2 14‑ 17‑ 2
7x4 7 0 2 4
6x5
Throw, ft 22½ 6‑ 8‑ 13 6‑ 10‑ 1 7‑ 10‑ 15 9‑ 11‑ 16 10‑ 13‑ 1 11‑ 14‑ 1
4 8 9
45 3‑ 5‑ 4‑ 6‑ 9 5‑ 7‑ 5‑ 7‑ 10 6‑ 8‑ 11 7‑ 9‑ 12
8 9

EG-5
© Copyright Price Industries Limited 2011. All Metric dimensions ( ) are soft conversion.
Imperial dimensions are converted to metric and rounded to the nearest millimetre.
 Air Distribution
Engineering Guide

Selection Procedures

ADPI Figure 30: Comfort criteria ‑ draft temperature

Extensive studies have resulted in
relationships between local temperatures, Local Air Temp. - Ambient Temp., ˚F (T - Tc)˚C
velocities and comfort reactions. On the basis
of the temperature and velocity at a specific -2.5 -2 -1.5 -1 -0.5 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5
AIR DISTRIBUTION ENGINEERING GUIDE

point, an effective draft temperature can be 80 0.04

calculated for that location. The draft temperature
is calculated by the equation: 70 0.35
ϴed = (Tx - Tc ) - 8(Vx - 0.15) Eq.1 60 0.30
where:
50 0.25
ϴt te=mdprearfature
Velocity, fpm

Velocity, m/s
Tx = local temperature Tc = 40 0.20
control temperature Vx =
local velocity 30 0.15
Research indicates that a high percentage of
people are comfortable when the effective draft 20 0.10
temperature difference is between ‑ 3 °F [‑ 2 °C]
and +2 °F [+1 °C] and the air velocity is less than 10 0.05
70 fpm [0.36 m/s]. This comfort zone is
illustrated as the shaded area in Figure 30. 0 0
Using this draft temperature as our criteria, the -5 -4 -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3 4 5
quality of room air diffusion can be
determined based on the Air Diffusion Local Air Temp. - Ambient Temp., ˚F (T - Tc)˚F
Performance Index (ADPI). ADPI is defined as
the percentage of locations in the occupied
space which meet the comfort criteria based Table 4: Characteristic length for various diffuser types
on velocity and temperature measurements
taken at a given number of uniformly
distributed points. This ADPI value has proven Diffuser Type Characteristic Length, L
to be a valid measure of an air diffusion
system.
The ADPI rating of an air diffusion system High Sidewall Grille Distance to wall perpendicular to jet
depends on a number of factors:
• Outlet type Circular Ceiling Diffuser Distance to closest wall or intersecting air jet
• Room dimensions and diffuser layout
• Room load
• Outlet throw Sill Grille Length of room in the direction of the jet flow
When properly selected, most outlets can
achieve an acceptable ADPI rating.
Ceiling Slot Diffuser Distance to wall or midplane between outlets
The higher the ADPI rating, the higher the
quality of room air diffusion within the space.
Generally an ADPI of 80 is considered Distance to midplane between outlets, plus
Light Troffer Diffusers
acceptable. distance from ceiling to top of occupied zone
Through extensive testing, relationships have Perforated, Louvered Ceiling
been developed between ADPI and the Distance to wall or midplane between outlets
Diffusers
ratio of throw over characteristic length (T/L).
Throw is the isothermal throw at a selected
terminal velocity taken from catalog It should be noted that Table 4 is based on a standard 9ft [2.7 m] ceiling height. For rooms with ceiling
performance charts. The characteristic heights lower or higher, the characteristic length should be corrected down or up by the difference
length is the distance from the outlet to the from 9 ft [2.7 m].
nearest boundary. Table 4 provides definition For example, a 20 ft [6.1 m] long room with a 12 ft [3.7 m] ceiling height and high sidewall grille:
of characteristic length for various outlet types.
See Figure 31 for further clarification. Distance from grille to perpendicular wall = 20 ft [6.1 m], height correction: 12 ‑ 9 = 3 ft (3.7 ‑ 2.7 = 1
m] , characteristic length: 20 + 3 = 23 ft [6.1 + 1 = 7.1 m].
Note that the ADPI is applicable only for cooling mode conditions and can be field or lab measured
using the test method described in ASHRAE Standard 113.

EG-10 Imperial dimensions are converted to metric and rounded to the nearest millimetre.
All Metric dimensions ( ) are soft conversion. © Copyright Price Industries Limited 2011.
Air Distribution
Engineering Guide

Selection Procedures
Heating mode conditions can be evaluated using
ASHRAE Standard 55 guidelines and the test Figure 31: Characteristic length illustration
method of ASHRAE Standard 113.
Table 5 illustrates the range of T/L values
which will result in optimum ADPI values for

ENGINEERING GUIDE - AIR DISTRIBUTION

various outlet types at several room loads. By
selecting a throw from the catalog data which L L L L
produces the requiredT/L ratios, an acceptable L
ADPI rating can be achieved.
By studying Table 5, we can make several
observations which are valuable to consider
High Sidewall Grill Ceiling and Slot Diffusers
when selecting air outlets for maximum
ADPI:
1. Generally, the higher the room load, the
more difficult it is to achieve a high ADPI.
2. A value of T/L = 1.0 generally will produce
an acceptable ADPI.
L L
L
[Link] air outlets are better than others at achieving
high ADPI values. For example, a sidewall grille
has a maximumADPI value of 85, while the
circular ceiling diffuser can achieve an ADPI Occupied Zone
value of 93. Sill Grill Light Troffer Diffusers

4T./LArawnid
ge allowsthedesigner more flexibility in
selecting the air outlet for optimum ADPI.
5. Outlets with a wide T/L range are more
applicable to VAV systems as they can
Table 5: Air diffusion performance index (ADPI) selection guide
maintain a high ADPI even when turned
down to low air volume. At 20 Btu/h/ft2 [63 T0.25/L ADPI
W/m2] a ceiling slot diffuser has a Room Load Max. Range of
Terminal Device for Max. Greater
turn‑ down ratio of 20% while maintaining W/m2 ADPI T0.25/L
ADPI Than
an ADPI of greater than 80. At the same
250 1.8 68 ‑ ‑
condition the high sidewall
grillehasaturn‑ downratioofapproximately 50%. 190 1.8 72 70 1.5 to 2.2
Light troffer diffusers have the largest T/L range High Sidewall Grilles 125 1.6 78 70 1.2 to 2.3
of all outlets, making them an excellent 65 1.5 85 80 1.0 to 1.9
choice for VAV applications. < 30 1.4 90 80 0.7 to 2.1
250 0.8 76 70 0.7 to 1.3
ALL-IN-ONE TIP 190 0.8 83 80 0.7 to 1.2
Circular Ceiling Diffusers*
Price All‑ In‑ One selection software 125 0.8 88 80 0.5 to 1.5
includes an ADPI calculation tool for 65 0.8 93 80 0.4 to 1.7
automated calculation of ADPI for all < 30 0.8 99 80 0.4 to 1.7
outlet models. 250 1.7 61 60 1.5 to 1.7
Sill Grille Straight 190 1.7 72 70 1.4 to 1.7
Vanes 125 1.3 86 80 1.2 to 1.8
65 0.9 95 90 0.8 to 1.3
PRODUCT TIP 250 0.7 94 90 0.6 to 1.5
Although not fully supported by Sill Grille Spread 190 0.7 94 80 0.6 to 1.7
research it is generally accepted that Vanes 125 0.7 94 ‑ ‑
a high ADPI rating will produce a
correspondingly high ventilation 65 0.7 94 ‑ ‑
effectiveness, (i.e. approaching 1.0). If 250 0.3 85 80 0.3 to 0.7
the supply air is well mixed and Ceiling Slot Diffusers 190 0.3 88 80 0.3 to 0.8
evenly distributed in the space, then (for T100/L) 125 0.3 91 80 0.3 to 1.1
any contaminants will also be evenly
65 0.3 92 80 0.3 to 1.5
distributed, providing maximum
indoor air quality. 190 2.5 86 80 < 3.8
Light Troffer Diffusers 125 1.0 92 90 < 3.0
65 1.0 95 90 < 4.5
Perforated & Louvered 35 to 160 2.0 96 90 1.4 to 2.7
Ceiling Diffusers 35 to 160 2.0 96 80 1.0 to 3.4
*Includes square cone diffusers and square plaque diffusers

EG-11
© Copyright Price Industries Limited 2011. All Metric dimensions ( ) are soft conversion.
Imperial dimensions are converted to metric and rounded to the nearest millimetre.
 Air Distribution
Engineering Guide

Selection Procedures
VAV Applications
Figure 32: Ceiling diffuser
When selecting air outlets forVAVapplications it is important to analyze the ADPI
at both the maximum and reduced flow conditions. For most outlets the
throw, and consequently theT/L ratio, drops off as the air flow through the SPi
diffuser is decreased. If theT/L ratio drops too low ADPI can be
VPi
AIR DISTRIBUTION ENGINEERING GUIDE

compromised. Selecting an outlet for high ADPI at maximum flow does

not ensure acceptable air distribution in the space when the load is
reduced. Since ADPI is a measure of the air diffusion quality in the space,
we are not concerned with the ADPI value when the space is
unoccupied with the air outlet at minimum volume. We should, however,
review the selection at low load conditions, such as when occupancy is
reduced and/or external loads are at minimum.
Refer to Chapter 9—MixingVentilation in the Price Engineer's HVAC
Handbook for examples that provide a step‑ by‑ step procedure for
selection of air outlets using ADPI.
Pressure Drop
Supply air outlets produce both a static pressure loss and a velocity pressure Figure 33: Slot diffuser
loss. The static pressure loss is equal to the difference between the inlet
static pressure (SPi) and the room pressure (usually atmospheric).
The static pressure loss is dependent on outlet geometry and/or free area
and must be derived by test. Static pressure loss is directly proportional to SPi
the volume of air supplied through the outlet. The velocity pressure loss is
equal to the velocity pressure at the inlet (VPi) and the room velocity
VPi
pressure (zero). See Figure 32 and Figure 33.
The inlet velocity, and subsequently the velocity pressure loss, can be
calculated from equations 2 and [Link] total pressure loss of an outlet is
equal to the sum of the static and velocity pressure losses (equation 4).
Most catalog data lists the total pressure loss for a given air volume. If velocity
pressure is provided, the static pressure can be derived from equation 4;
however, if velocity pressure is not provided, it can be calculated based
on the inlet velocity. For ceiling diffusers and plenum slot diffusers the
inlet velocity is based on the inlet area. For sidewall grilles and registers
the inlet velocity is based on the grille core area.
Velocity Eq.2

Velocity Pressure Eq.3

Total Pressure Eq.4

EG-12 Imperial dimensions are converted to metric and rounded to the nearest millimetre.

All Metric dimensions ( ) are soft conversion. © Copyright Price Industries Limited 2011.
Air Distribution
Engineering Guide

Example 2
A model SDB 100 2 slot, 60 in. diffuser with 8 in. Table 6: Model SDB 100, 2‑ slot, 60 in. diffuser ‑ 8 in. round inlet performance data
round inlet is selected for 280 cfm. What is the
pressure loss? Performance Data - Model SDB 100, 2-slot, 60 in. diffuser - 8 in. Round Inlet
From Table 6 performance data, the total
Capacity, cfm 160 190 220 250 280 310
pressure = 0.122 in. w.g. at 280 cfm.

ENGINEERING GUIDE - AIR DISTRIBUTION

Projection, ft H 7-14-20 11-15-22 13-16-23 14-17-24 15-19-26 16-19-27
Neck Area Eq.5 36 in.
V 17 19 21 23 24 25
(6 in.
Tp 0.122 0.171 0.229 0.293 0.368 0.452
Inlet)
NC 24 29 34 37 41 44
Projection, ft H 5-13-20 7-16-23 10-17-24 12-18-26 16-19-28 17-20-29
48 in.
V 17 19 22 23 24 26
Neck Velocity Eq.6 (7 in.
Tp 0.060 0.087 0.114 0.150 0.188 0.228
Inlet)
NC - - 23 27 30 33
Projection, ft H 4-9-20 5-14-22 7-17-23 9-18-25 10-20-26 13-20-29
Velocity Pressure Eq.7 60 in.
V 14 17 20 22 23 25
(8 in.
Tp 0.040 0.055 0.076 0.098 0.122 0.149
Inlet)
NC - - - 21 24 27

Static Pressure Eq.8

EG-13
© Copyright Price Industries Limited 2011. All Metric dimensions ( ) are soft conversion.
Imperial dimensions are converted to metric and rounded to the nearest millimetre.
 Air Distribution
Engineering Guide

Selection Procedures
Noise Criteria Table 7: Diffuser sound comparison ‑ 24 in. x 24 in. module [610 mm x 610 mm], 380 cfm
The first step in selection of an air outlet is [180 L/s], 700 fpm [3.6 m/s] neck velocity
defining the actual model type. A large Diffuser Type NC Level
variety of outlet styles, shapes and
configurations are available. In many cases the Square Cone 17
AIR DISTRIBUTION ENGINEERING GUIDE

outlet model selection is based on Square Plaque 18

architectural or economic considerations. This Round Cone 22
decision on outlet type or model has
Modular Core 26
significant influence on the resultant noise
levels of the application since noise Perforated Curved Vane 28
generation of air outlets depends on their Louvered Face 31
design and geometry. Outlets with Perforated Face Deflector 33
aerodynamic components and high free area
will generally have lower noise levels at the Perforated Neck Deflector 37
same air flow.
Table 8: Plenum slot diffuser sound comparison ‑ 1 in. slot, 4 ft [1.2 m], 270 cfm [127 L/s],
Table 7 lists the NC level for several ceiling 8 in. [203 mm] neck, 800 fpm [4.1 m/s] neck velocity
diffusers at the same air volume and neck
velocity. The resultant NC level varies from a Diffuser Type NC Level
barely perceptible NC 17 for the square cone Linear Slot 31
to a marginally acceptable NC 37 for the
[Link] table illustrates several points to Linear Fixed Curved 36
consider when selecting air outlets. Linear Ice Tong 39
1. The square plaque and square cone Linear Wiper Blade 46
diffuser are an excellent choice for
acoustically sensitive applications or when
high air volumes per outlet are desired.
This is due to the aerodynamic cones and
high free area.
[Link]
orated diffusers tend to be noisier than other
available models at the same air volume.
This is due to the restricted free area of the
perforated face and pattern deflectors in the
air stream.
3. There is a fairly large variation in generated noise
levels, even between various perforated
diffuser types. The curved pattern controllers
of the perforated curved diffuser generates
less sound than the less aerodynamic neck
deflectors of the perforated neck deflector
diffuser.
[Link]
e outlets based on neck
velocity is a poor indication of acoustic
performance.
5. To ensure predictable sound levels it is
essential to reference the manufacturers’
cataloged sound levels for the specified
product.
Table 8 illustrates a similar noise level
comparison for several models of plenum slot
diffusers selected at the same conditions.
Again, a wide range of acoustic performance is
seen as a result of the diffuser design. The
linear slot diffuser can be seen as the obvious
choice for high capacity, noise‑ sensitive
applications.

EG-14 Imperial
All Metricdimensions
dimensionsare converted
( ) are to metric and rounded to the nearest millimetre.
soft conversion. © Copyright Price Industries Limited 2011.
Air Distribution
Engineering Guide

Selection Procedures
Guidelines to Minimize Noise in an Air Table 9: Design guidelines for HVAC system noise in unoccupied spaces
Distribution System
• Size the ductwork and duct elements for Room Types RC / NC
low air velocity. Private Residences 25-35

ENGINEERING GUIDE - AIR DISTRIBUTION

• Avoid abrupt changes in duct cross- Hotels/Motels
sectional area or direction. Individual rooms or suites 25‑ 35
• Provide smooth air flow at all duct Meeting/banquet rooms 25‑ 35
elements, including branches, elbows, Corridors, lobbies 35‑ 45
transitions and air outlets. Service/support areas 35‑ 45
• When flexible duct is used it should be Office Buildings
pulled taught and installed as straight as
Executive and private offices 25‑ 35
possible.
• Provide straight ductwork (preferably five Conference rooms 25‑ 35
to ten duct diameters) between duct Teleconference rooms < 25
elements. Open‑ plan offices < 40
• Use equalizing grids when non ideal ‑ With sound masking < 35
inlets cannot be avoided. Corridors and lobbies 40‑ 45
• Balance the duct system for lowest Hospitals and Clinics
reasonable fan speed with dampers Private rooms 25‑ 35
generally open. Wards 30‑ 40
• Locate volume control dampers a Operating rooms 25‑ 35
minimum of three (preferably five to ten)
Corridors and public areas 30‑ 45
duct diameters away from air outlets.
Selection Procedure Performing Arts Spaces c
Table 9 illustrates theASHRAE recommended Drama theaters 25
space NC values for many commercial air Music teaching studios 25
conditioning applications. Outlets should be Music practice rooms 30‑ 35
selected so that the tabulated NC levels are Schools d
within these design goals.
Classrooms 25‑ 30
Refer to Chapter 9—MixingVentilation in the Price
Large lecture rooms 25‑ 30
Engineer's HVAC Handbook for noise selection
procedures and examples. Large lecture rooms, without speech amplification 25
Laboratories (with Fume Hoods)
Testing/research, minimal speech communication 45‑ 55
Research, extensive telephone use, speech communication 40‑ 50
Group teaching 35‑ 45
Church, Mosque, Synagogue
General assembly 25‑ 35
With critical music programs c
Libraries 30‑ 40
Courtrooms
Un‑ amplified speech 25‑ 35
Amplified speech 30‑ 40
Indoor Stadiums, Gymnasiums
Gymnasiums and natatoriumse 40‑ 50
Large seating‑ capacity spaces with speech amplificatione 45‑ 55
a The values and ranges are based on judgment and experience, not quantitative evaluations of human reactions.
They represent
general limits of acceptability for typical building occupancies. Higher or lower values may be appropriate and should be
based on a careful analysis of economics, space use and user needs.
b When quality of sound in the space is important, specify criteria in terms of RC(N). If the quality of the sound in the space is of
secondary concern, the criteria may be specified in terms of NC or NCB levels of similar magnitude.
c An experienced acoustical consultant should be retained for guidance on acoustically critical spaces (below RC 30) and
for all performing arts spaces.
d Some educators and others believe that HVAC‑ related sound criteria for schools, as listed in previous editions of this table,
are too high and impede learning for affected groups of all ages. See ANSI Standard S12.60‑ 2002 for classroom acoustics
and a justification for lower sound criteria in schools. The HVAC component of total noise meets the background noise
requirement of that standard if HVAC‑ related background sound is RC 25(N).
e RC or NC criteria for these spaces need only be selected for the desired speech.
Reference • 2007 ASHRAE Applications Handbook, Table 42, page 47.34
• AHRI Standard 885-2008, Table 15, page 31

EG-15
© Copyright Price Industries Limited 2011. All Metric dimensions ( ) are soft conversion.
Imperial dimensions are converted to metric and rounded to the nearest millimetre.
 Air Distribution
Engineering Guide

Low Temperature Systems

Description
Low temperature air distribution systems Figure 34: Low temperature air outlets
typically supply conditioned air at nominal Linear Outlet Swirl Outlet
temperatures of between 42 °F [6 °C] and 47 °F
[8 °C], as compared to conventional systems
AIR DISTRIBUTION ENGINEERING GUIDE

which supply air at temperatures between 55 °F

[13 °C] and 59 °F [15 °C]. Low temperature air
distribution systems have been applied mainly in
conjunction with ice storage systems to take
advantage of the low temperature chilled water
produced by these systems.
Ice storage systems have been applied to
reduce electrical demand during peak periods.
Electric chillers are used to freeze water at night Supply Air Induced Room Air
when utility rates are low. During the day the
ice is used to cool the building, reducing Figure 35: Variable volumesupply with low temperature air outlets
operation of the electric chiller during peak
periods. Electric utilities in some areas also offer
incentives to owners installing ice storage 44
systems.
Design Considerations
Several design considerations must be 11
taken into account when considering a low
temperature air distribution system. Some
common concerns include condensation,
comfort and indoor air quality. 33
Low Temperature Air Outlets 22 55
If low temperature air is to be supplied
directly to the space, supply air outlets must Cold Primary Air
be designed and tested to provide good 66
mixing and maintain a horizontal air pattern at
low flow conditions. In addition, the diffuser
must be properly insulated and sealed to
prevent condensation from forming on the
diffuser surface.
[Link] Perforated Face Diffuser [Link] Square Plaque Diffuser
Low temperature air outlets have been
• Induction chamber aids rapid mixing • Induction chamber aids rapid mixing
developed specifically for the supply of low
of low temperature air. of low temperature air.
temperature air. All outlets feature high
induction jets which rapidly mix supply and room • Aerodynamic shape of backpan • Flush face of plaque provides architectural
air as well as maintain a good horizontal air ensures excellent horizontal air pattern. appeal.
pattern at low flow conditions. These features • Perforated face blends well with • Factory insulated and sealed to prevent
ensure comfort conditions are provided in the suspended ceiling tiles. condensation.
space. • Factory insulated and sealed to prevent • Aerodynamic shape of backpan
When supplying low temperature air condensation. ensures excellent horizontal air pattern.
directly to the space, the terminal unit and [Link]
ort Coil [Link] Radial Vane Diffuser
o
accessories suchasreheat coils, attenuators, etc., • Factory insulated and sealed with external • Highinductionvortexairpatternprovides
must also be specifically constructed to prevent foil faced insulation to prevent rapid mixing of low temperature air.
condensation. condensation. • Factory insulated and sealed to prevent
Variable Volume Supply with Low • Available with insulated access door. condensation.
Temperature Air Outlets
• One or two row coils available.
Some manufacturers have developed 3. Single Duct Terminal with Low PRODUCT TIP
various air distribution components which can Temperature Supply Option
provide a supply of low temperature air to the Low temperature outlets are available with
space while maintaining comfortable conditions • Factory insulated and sealed to prevent cataloged performance data at
under variable air volume operation. condensation. reduced supply air temperature,
• Isolated and insulated inlet duct foil ensuring proper selection.
Figure 35 presents various low temperature
diffuser options utilized in conjunction with a faced internal insulation. o
[Link]
single duct VAV reheat terminal designed for low Linear Diffuser
PRODUCT TIP
temperature operation. • Induction chamber aids rapid mixing
of low temperature air. Low temperature construction for single
• 1 or 2 way horizontal air pattern. duct terminals include internal vapor
barrier, thermally isolated inlet valves and
• Factory insulated and sealed to prevent insulated inlet collar.
condensation.

EG-16 Imperial dimensions are converted to metric and rounded to the nearest millimetre.
All Metric dimensions ( ) are soft conversion. © Copyright Price Industries Limited 2011.
Air Distribution
Engineering Guide

Industrial Ventilation
The purpose of an industrial ventilation
system is to reduce the exposure to excess heat Figure 36: Figure 37: Drum louver Figure 38: Nozzle
and contaminants generated in an industrial Industrial supply grille
environment. The most effective method of
removing excess heat and contaminants is

ENGINEERING GUIDE - AIR DISTRIBUTION

at the source with a local exhaust system.
Another method is dilution with general
ventilation by either a fan system, natural
draft or a combination of the two. In some cases
cooling is required to maintain acceptable space
conditions, either for people or processes.
Many industrial applications require a Figure 39: Figure 40:
combination of local exhaust, general Industrial return grille Security grille
ventilation supply and general exhaust to
handle simultaneous removal of heat and
contaminants. This section will focus on
general ventilation supply air systems.
Air Supply Methods
Similar to commercial spaces, there are
several methods of supplying air to an
industrial [Link] following are the most
common:
Mixing Air Distribution single or double deflection; however, the aluminum with welded frame. Options include
Supply air exits the outlet at a high velocity, louvers are deeper (up to 3 in. [76 mm]) and stainless steel construction and heavy duty
inducing room air to provide mixing and spaced wider. The deeper louver is stronger balancing damper (Figure 39).
temperature equalization before the air jet and more effective for pattern deflection. Security Grilles
reaches the occupied zone. Since the air jet Construction is generally extruded
aluminum louvers and heavy duty aluminum Due to their heavy duty construction, security grilles
induces the surrounding air, the contaminant are a good option for severe industrial
concentration in the space is diluted. or steel frame. The heavy duty construction of
the industrial supply grilles and registers environments in addition to institutional
Displacement Ventilation withstands frequent adjustment, high velocity applications (Figure 40).
Introduces air into the space at low velocities, which and air volumes, turbulent supply air, and Construction Features
causes minimal induction and mixing. contaminants in the air stream. Options include When selecting outlets for industrial
Displacement outlets may be located almost gang operators, quick‑ release trunk latch frame applications there are several construction and
anywhere within the space, but have been and heavy duty balancing damper (Figure functional features to consider. Supply grilles or
traditionally located at or near floor [Link] 36). nozzles should include a means of adjusting
system utilizes buoyancy forces generated by
Drum Louver the direction of air flow to facilitate changes to
heat sources such as people or processes to
Drum louvers consist of adjustable vanes the work area layout or changes due to
remove contaminants and heat from the
mounted in a rotating drum which is seasonal variations. On multi‑ blade grilles a
occupied zone. See Volume 4, Section J for
adjustable up or down to provide directional gang operator option simplifies blade
Displacement Ventilation Outlets.
control of the air [Link] deep adjustable vanes adjustment. Often the air outlets are subjected
Localized Ventilation to high velocities and turbulent flow conditions.
can be used to achieve varying amounts of
Introduces the air directly to a specific area of a spread pattern. The depth of the drum and Vibration of the ductwork due to close coupled
space or toward the breathing zone of an vanes produces a long air projection and high fans or other equipment can also be present. To
occupant to provide comfort conditions and/or control degree of directional control. Construction can prevent grille blades or the nozzle drum from
of [Link] close proximity of the outlet to be heavy gauge steel or extruded aluminum. moving under the influence of these conditions,
the source prevents entrainment of contaminants, Options include pole operator bracket, motorized a locking mechanism is recommended.
providing a much cleaner work area than the drum and heavy duty balancing damper (Figure Other options to consider are:
surrounding space. 37). • Quick-release fastening frame for easy
Unidirectional or Plug Flow Nozzle removal and replacement for cleaning
Introduces non turbulent or laminar supply air to Similar to the drum louver, the nozzle • Filter frame for return grilles
the space to control contaminants and obtain a achieves a very long air projection due to its • Stainless steel construction for corrosive
high level of cleanliness. depth and geometry. Generally round in shape, environments
Air Outlets nozzles are available in a variety of models • Heavy duty industrial grade balancing
including adjustable versions which allow dampers with locking mechanism
Due to the unique and extreme conditions
directional control of the air pattern.
experienced in the industrial environment,
Construction can be steel or aluminum. • Heavy duty gym grilles or security grilles
specific air outlet models have been for return applications to prevent damage in
Options include motorized direction control and
developed for this application. Several are low areas
twist elements for throw and spread
presented below:
adjustment (Figure 38). Air Outlet Selection
Industrial Supply Grilles and Registers
Industrial Return Grilles or Registers Refer to Chapter 9—Mixing Ventilation in the Price
Similar to commercial models, the grille or Engineer's HVACHandbookfor Industrial Outlet
register has adjustable louvers in Grilles or registers have fixed blades of
various deflection and blade spacing and are selectionproceduresandexamples.
constructed of heavy gauge steel or extruded

EG-17
© Copyright Price Industries Limited 2011. All Metric dimensions ( ) are soft conversion.
Imperial dimensions are converted to metric and rounded to the nearest millimetre.
 Air Distribution
Engineering Guide

Conversion Factors

Item To Convert From To SI Units Multiply By

Imperial Units
Length inches millimetres mm 25.4
inches metres m 0.0254
AIR DISTRIBUTION ENGINEERING GUIDE

feet metres m 0.3048

Area square inches square millimetres mm2 645.16
square inches square centimetres cm2 6.4516
square inches square metres m2 0.000 645 16
square feet square metres m2 0.092 903 04
olume —
V Air std. cubic feet per minute cubic metres per second m3/s 0.000 471 947
Flow std. cubic feet per minute cubic metres per hour m3/h 1.699
std. cubic feet per minute litres per second L/s 0.471 947
Under 1m3/s use L/s
olume —
V Liquid gallon (Can.) litre L 4.546 090
& Liquid Flow gallon (U.S.) liter L 3.785 412
gallons per minute (Can.) litre per second L/s 0.075 768
gallons per minute (U.S.) liter per second L/s 0.063 09
gallons per hour (Can.) litre per second L/s 0.001 263
gallons per hour (U.S.) liter per second L/s 0.001 051
elocity V feet per second metres per second m/s 0.3048
feet per minute metres per second m/s 0.005 080
Pressure inches of water (60 °F) pascal (20 °C) Pa 248.84
foot of water (39.2 °F) pascal (20 °C) Pa 2 988.98
inches of mercury (60 °F) pascal Pa 3 376.85
lb force per square inch (psi) pascal Pa 6 894.757
lb force per square foot pascal Pa 48.880 26
Energy btu joule J 1 055.056
Power Horsepower watt W 746
kilowatts KW 0.746
Temperature Rankin kelvin K 5/9
(see next page) Fahrenheit Celsius, Centigrade C (F-32) (5/9)
Heat flow rate btu per hour watt W 0.293 071
kilowatt KW 0.000 293 071
Weight ounce gram g 28.350
pound kilogram kg 0.4536
Density pounds per kilograms per kg/m3 16.018
cubic foot cubic meter kg/m3

Temperature Example The conversion data presented in this

1. T
o convert from degree Fahrenheit to degree A)Grilles & Registers catalog is based on the following reference
standards:
Celsius, subtract 32 and divide by 1.8. ricP
e 20 in. x 4 in. 22/C/S at 550 cfm,
[Link] from degree Celsius to degree
o 0.156 in. w.g. total pressure, core velocity 1. National Standard of Canada, “Metric
Fahrenheit, multiply by 1.8 and add 32. = 1200 fpm will be described in SI units as Practice Guide" CAN3‑ Z234. 1‑ 76
3o. T convert from degree Fahrenheit to follows: (Canadian Standards Association, 178
Kelvin, add 459.67 and divide by 1.8. ricP
e 508 mm x 102 mm, 22/C/S at 275 L/s. 39 Rexdale Boulevard, Rexdale, Ontario
Pa total pressure, core velocity M9N 1R3).
4o. Tconvert from Kelvin to degree
Fahrenheit, multiply by 1.8 and subtract = 6 m/s. 2.S“HRAE SI Metric Guide for Heating,
A
459.67. B) Diffusers Refrigerating, Ventilating, and Air
Conditioning” (ASHRAE Inc., 1791 Tullie
[Link] from degree Celsius to Kelvin, add
o ricP
e 24 in. x 24 in., 10 in. round inlet SCD at
Circle, NE, Atlanta, Georgia, 30329.
273.15. 490 cfm, .098 in. w.g. total pressure neck
velocity = 900 fpm will be described in SI 3. “Supplementary Metric Practice Guide for
[Link] from Kelvin to degree Celsius,
o
units as follows: Heating, Ventilating, Air Con‑ ditioning,
subtract 273.15.
Refrigeration, Plumbing and Air Pollution
7o. cTonvert from degree Rankin to Kelvin, ricP
e 600 mm x 600 mm, 250 mm round inlet SCD
Equipment Manu‑ facturing Industries”
divide by 1.8. at 231 L/s, 25 Pa total pressure, neck velocity
(Heating, Refrigerating and Air
= 5 m/s.
Conditioning Institute of Canada; 385 The
Note:
West Mall, Suite 267, Etobicoke, Ontario
Dimensions are 'soft' conversion, and M9C 1E7)
rounded to the nearest millimetre.

EG-18 Imperial
All Metricdimensions
dimensionsare converted
( ) are to metric and rounded to the nearest millimetre.
soft conversion. © Copyright Price Industries Limited 2011.
Air Distribution
Engineering Guide

References
ACGIH (2004). Industrial ventilation manual of recommended practice.

AHRI. Standard 855—Procedure for estimating occupied space sound levels in the application of air terminals and
air outlets.

ENGINEERING GUIDE - AIR DISTRIBUTION

ASHRAE (1991). Chapter 42. ASHRAE handbook—HVAC applications. Atlanta, GA: American Society of Heating,
efrigeRration,Air ‑ Conditioning Engineers.

ASHRAE (2007). Chapter 29. ASHRAE handbook—HVAC applications. Atlanta, GA: American Society of Heating,
efrigeRration,Air ‑ Conditioning Engineers.

ASHRAE (2007). Chapter 47. ASHRAE handbook—HVAC applications. Atlanta, GA: American Society of Heating,
efrigeRration,Air ‑ Conditioning Engineers.

ASHRAE (2007). Chapter 56. ASHRAE handbook—HVAC applications. Atlanta, GA: American Society of Heating,
efrigeRration,Air ‑ Conditioning Engineers.

ASHRAE (2009). Chapter 8. ASHRAE handbook—[Link], GA:American Society of Heating, Refrigeration,

Air‑ Conditioning Engineers.

ASHRAE(2009). Chapter20. ASHRAEhandbook—[Link], GA:AmericanSocietyof Heating,Refrigeration,

Air‑ Conditioning Engineers.

Kirkpatrick, A. T., & Elleson, J. S. (1996). Cold air distribution system design guide. Atlanta, GA: American Society of
Heating, Refrigeration and Air‑ Conditioning Engineers.

Nevins, R. G. (1976). Air diffusion dynamics, theory, design and application. Birmingham, MI: Business News Publishing
Company.

EG-19
© Copyright Price Industries Limited 2011. All Metric dimensions ( ) are soft conversion.
Imperial dimensions are converted to metric and rounded to the nearest millimetre.