In building HVAC engineering, duct systems are a core component for air transport and regulation. With increasing demands for building energy conservation, noise reduction, and construction efficiency, the selection of duct materials is no longer limited to traditional galvanized iron ducts. New composite duct systems, represented by fiberglass ducts, are gradually being applied in commercial buildings, public buildings, and industrial projects. This article will compare and analyze fiberglass ducts with traditional duct systems, providing a systematic analysis from multiple dimensions including structure, performance, construction, and application.

I. Basic Types of Duct Systems

1. Overview of Traditional Duct Systems

Traditional duct systems typically use galvanized steel, stainless steel, or aluminum sheets as the main body, connected by flanges or seams, with insulation layers added later. This system is structurally stable, has a long history of application, and is the most common form in HVAC engineering.

2. Overview of Fiberglass Duct Systems

Fiberglass ducts use fiberglass sheets as the main body, integrating structure, insulation, and sound absorption. They are usually prefabricated in a factory or cut and installed on-site, belonging to composite duct systems.

II. Structural Composition Comparison Analysis

**Fiberglass Duct Structural Characteristics:**

Dense internal fiberglass structure

Surface coated with a moisture-proof and anti-detachment coating

No additional insulation layer required

Integrated structure and function

**Traditional Duct Structural Characteristics:**

Metal duct body + external insulation layer

Separation of structure and insulation

Multiple layers, numerous construction steps

From a structural perspective, fiberglass duct systems are more integrated, while traditional duct systems have clear modules but more complex construction processes.

III. Insulation Performance Comparison Analysis

In HVAC systems, heat loss from ducts directly affects system energy efficiency:

**Fiberglass Ducts:**

Possesses stable insulation performance

Effectively reduces heat loss along the way

Insulation layer is less prone to detachment

**Traditional Duct Systems:**

Relies on external glass wool, rubber, and other insulation materials

Construction quality significantly impacts insulation effectiveness

Prone to insulation damage later on

Insulation stability is a clear advantage for fiberglass ducts.

IV. Sound Insulation and Noise Reduction Performance Comparison

**Sound Insulation Advantages of Fiberglass Ducts**

Fiberglass ducts have a porous fiber structure, which effectively absorbs airflow and equipment noise, making them particularly suitable for locations with high acoustic requirements.

**Noise Characteristics of Traditional Duct Systems**

Metal ducts have smooth inner walls, which easily generate reflected noise, usually requiring additional silencers or sound-absorbing sections.

From a noise reduction perspective, fiberglass ducts offer a greater advantage in system simplification.

V. Fire Resistance and Safety Comparison

**Fiberglass Duct System**

Uses inorganic glass fiber materials

Possesses excellent fire resistance

Not easily combustible, does not support combustion

**Traditional Duct System**

Metal body is non-combustible

External insulation layer has significantly different fire resistance ratings

Key considerations are needed for insulation material selection

In terms of overall system fire resistance consistency, fiberglass ducts offer easier risk control.

VI. Comparison of Construction Efficiency and Installation Costs

**Features of Fiberglass Duct Construction:**

* Easy on-site cutting and assembly

* Lightweight, requiring less stringent hoisting standards

* Short construction period

**Features of Traditional Duct Construction:**

* Multiple processes including fabrication, installation, and insulation

* Heavy weight, requiring high structural load-bearing capacity

* Relatively long construction period

In terms of schedule control and overall construction efficiency, fiberglass duct systems have a greater advantage.

VII. System Maintenance and Service Life Comparison

Fiberglass duct systems have a simple structure, with no exposed insulation layer, resulting in lower maintenance costs.

Traditional duct systems may experience insulation aging and detachment during long-term operation.

VIII. Summary of Applicable Scenarios

Fiberglass Duct Applicable Scenarios

Commercial complexes

Hospitals, schools, office buildings

Buildings with high noise and energy efficiency requirements

Traditional Duct System Applicable Scenarios

Industrial plants

High-temperature or special pressure conditions

Systems with extremely high structural strength requirements

Through comparative analysis of fiberglass duct systems and traditional duct systems, it can be seen that fiberglass ducts have significant advantages in insulation, noise reduction, and construction efficiency, while traditional duct systems remain irreplaceable in terms of strength and complex operating conditions. In actual projects, the duct type should be rationally selected based on building type, system requirements, and cost budget to achieve the optimal configuration of the overall system.