What are Spiral Ducts? : The Pros & Cons

Complete Guide to Spiral Ductwork for HVAC Systems

Spiral ductwork (also known as circular ductwork and round ductwork) is a spirally wound, round type of ductwork used in HVAC systems to enable the transport of air.

Spiral ducts offer a reliable and effective solution for HVAC system operation in commercial, industrial and residential buildings alike. From offices, factories and warehouses to shopping centres, residential apartments and hotels, spiral ductwork systems enable for energy and cost savings in HVAC operations whilst contributing to improved air quality and airflow.

Spiral Ductwork Enquiries

As leading suppliers of HVAC system ducting, dampers and components, we manufacture complete spiral ductwork and components in our in-house UK engineering facilities. We offer express delivery and availability across the UK through our publicly-accessible nationwide retail stores and delivery fleet.

Explore our range of spiral ducts and components, or contact our specialist team of ventilation system specialists for further advice and support.

Involved in a larger project? At HAS-Vent we have decades of experience supplying and supporting the development of ventilation systems and ducting for large commercial, industrial and residential buildings. Contact our team via 01902 895161 or via contact form for complete ventilation system project support.

What is spiral ductwork used for?

Spiral ductwork is used extensively in conjunction with HVAC systems for the transportation of air throughout buildings. The round profile of the ductwork ensures reduced friction and enhanced air flow for lowered energy consumption and operating costs for ventilation systems.

Spiral ductwork is used throughout the building ventilation industry due to its low air resistance and turbulence characteristics when in use; the round ductwork ensures minimised noise in operation for building applications where quiet ventilation is paramount. Spiral ducting is commonly chosen in buildings and properties due its sleek and modern appearance in exposed ventilation system installations.

Spiral ductwork can be used for a range of purposes in building properties, including:

• HVAC Systems: Spiral ductwork serves as an ideal solution for the transportation of heated and cooled conditioned air throughout properties, in conjunction with air conditioning systems.

• • Ventilation/Air Quality Systems: Spiral ductwork can be used to transport and remove stale, indoor air, whilst introducing fresh outdoor air for building ventilation.

• Dust Collection/Extraction: For industrial, production and manufacturing plants, spiral ducts can support the collection and extraction of dust to maintain clean work surfaces and spaces, whilst removing dust and other particles from the air for improved air quality.

• Fume extraction: In industrial facilities, spiral ductwork can be used to extract harmful fumes and gases from the air to ensure safety of workers through hazardous processes.

• Ventilation in large spaces: For large properties such as factories, warehouses, exhibitions, sporting and concert arenas, spiral ducts enable for effective and efficient ventilation to ensure optimal quality and comfort for inhabitants. 

Spiral ductwork is a common choice for architects, ventilation engineers, and property managers due to its versatility, affordability and suitability for a range of applications. Spiral ducts can be found in a variety of property types including:

• Commercial: Offices, retail shops and stores, restaurant dining and kitchen areas, hotels, shopping centres, theatres, sports arenas, concert halls.
• Industrial: Factories, warehouses, data centres, food processing facilities.
• Public: Schools, hospitals, universities, libraries, government buildings, museums, train stations, airports.
• Residential: High-rise apartment complexes.

Can you use spiral ductwork outside?

For many properties’ ventilation system requirements, ducting must be installed in both indoor and outdoor areas to support the function of air transportation throughout the building.

When selecting spiral ductwork, it is essential to consider the suitability of the material and finish of the ducting when installing in external applications. At HAS-Vent, our spiral ducting tube is manufactured in accordance with DW144 specification from galvanised material to ensure suitability for indoor and outdoor use.

For more information, contact our ventilation specialists today via 01902 895161 or our contact form.

How are spiral ducts made?

Spiral ducting is made from a multi-step manufacturing process to ensure quality and consistency for use in ventilation systems.

• Metal Preparation: In the initial process, sheet metal is cut and prepared to the required width and length dimensions for the final duct diameter.
• Spiral forming: Spiral forming machines are used to bend and form the sheet metal into a helical coil profile, to create a smooth cylindrical shape.
• Seam joining: Following the forming of the spiral strip, the ducts seams are joined to form a continuous airtight seam. 
• Cut to length: The ductwork is then cut to the required length. At HAS-Vent our spiral ducts are supplied in 3m lengths to an extensive range of diameters, enabling for connection with NP connectors.
• Edge finishing: Once cut to length, the edges of the ventilation duct are finished to prevent sharp edges/burrs, ensuring safe handling for transport and installation.
• Quality assurance: The ventilation ducts are then reviewed to ensure quality for longlasting performance and reliability in your ventilation systems

Alongside our range of rectangular ducting, flat oval ducting and HVAC ventilation components, our spiral wound ducting is manufactured in-house in our state-of-the-art UK manufacturing facilities. Our commitment to quality and engineering excellence ensures you will receive components that last and ensure reliability for years of operation.

Discover more about HAS-Vent or contact us for more information.

Is Spiral Ductwork expensive?

Spiral ducting is considered a cost effective solution for ventilation system installation in buildings and properties.

The exact cost of a spiral ducting installation can vary depending on a number of factors, including:

• The length and diameter of the ventilation duct
• How much ducting is required
• The material used
• Length and Complexity of the System

Our state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities enable us to manufacture spiral ducting with speed, precision and consistency, allowing us to offer cost effective ductwork componentry for your facility and property. From replacement and maintenance to new HVAC system development, our parts lower costs for your business or property.

Contact us to enquire about your ventilation duct and fitting requirements.

The pros and cons of Spiral Ductwork

When selecting a type of ductwork for a property, there are a number of factors to consider to ensure maximised suitability. At HAS-Vent we offer an extensive range of ductwork profiles and fittings, ranging from rectangular ducts and flat oval ducts to spiral ducts and specialist profile designs. As a result, we are equipped with the expertise to advise, manufacture and supply ventilation ducting that best suits your requirements.

The pros of spiral ducting

• Energy Efficiency: The smooth, round shape of spiral ducts reduces friction and pressure loss, resulting in lower energy consumption and reduced operating costs.
• Noise Reduction: The smooth airflow and minimal turbulence in spiral ducts contribute to quieter operation, making them ideal for noise-sensitive environments.
• Versatility: Spiral ducts can be easily customised to fit various configurations and can be used in both residential and commercial settings.
• Aesthetics: Their sleek, round design can be more visually appealing than traditional rectangular ductwork, especially when exposed in open ceilings or other areas.
• Cost-Effective: Spiral ducts are often more cost-effective to manufacture and install than rectangular ducts, especially for larger systems.

The Cons

• Limited Flexibility: Whilst a versatile choice for properties, spiral ducts may not be as suitable for complex installations as rectangular ducts.
• Spatial constraints: The round profile of spiral ducts may reduce spatial efficiency in properties and plant rooms. For installations where space is limited, rectangular ducts may be configured to fit to a building’s requirements more effectively.
• Limited Access for Maintenance: The internal structure of spiral ducts can make cleaning and maintenance more challenging compared to rectangular ducts.

Need help deciding what type of ductwork is best for you? 

Our ventilation system specialists are available on hand to assist with your selection. Enquire about our ventilation ducting today via 01902 895161 or fill out our contact form for further support.

For projects requiring specific, complex ventilation components, we offer additional specialist ventilation products and service solutions beyond our standard range of ductwork to provide access to the most effective ventilation system components for your requirements.

How to determine spiral ducting size for HVAC Systems?

Selecting the correct size and diameter of spiral ducting is crucial to ensure optimal performance and energy efficiency of HVAC systems.

When choosing the diameter of ductwork for your property, it is important to consider the required airflow rate and air velocity for the chosen function of the ductwork.

Consideration must also be given to system pressure, building regulations and code compliance, and the insulation requirements of ventilation system ducting to ensure the most appropriate duct dimensions are selected.

It is important to consult with qualified and experienced HVAC/Ventilation specialists to select the correct duct sizing for your installation. At HAS-Vent, our ventilation system experts are available to provide advice for your ventilation duct requirements. Contact us today for more information.

Specialists in Spiral HVAC Ductwork and Components

From new property development to replacement parts, we offer complete solutions to suit your HVAC ductwork requirements. Explore our range of products available for spiral ductwork or contact us for further advice and enquiries.

Involved in a large project?

At HAS-Vent, we have decades of experience supplying and supporting the development of ventilation systems and ducting for large commercial, industrial and residential buildings. For all of your ductwork and component requirements, we are available to specify, manufacture and supply all of your HVAC ducting requirements directly from our in-house engineering facilities in the UK. Contact us today for further advice and enquiries for your large-scale projects.