Know the Lingo: Metal Building Ventilation Terms
As with any industry, the metal building ventilation world has words and phrases that apply specifically to the work we carry out. And, although such phrases make life easier on our end in terms of quicker conversation, they can be confusing to those who work in other areas. At Metallic Products, we believe open communication and efforts to keep everyone on the same page can have big benefits for a project. (And one key way to help encourage that? Using phrases everyone understands.) Read on for a helpful overview of phrases you’re likely to come across when dealing with metal building ventilation projects.
- Air Changes Per Hour: Often shortened to ACH or ACPH, this term refers to the number of times air enters and exits a space through the HVAC and/or ventilation system within a 60-minute period. To calculate a space’s ACH, multiply the room’s CFM times 60 and divide it by the room’s volume (in cubic feet).
- Air Leakage: The uncontrolled — and unwelcome — entry of outside air into a building, often resulting in difficulty regulating indoor temperatures and humidity. Factors such as corrosion, rust and weakened building joints rank among common issues that lead to air leakage.
- Exhaust Air: Air purposefully removed from a space and replaced with cleaner, fresher air with the help of ventilation accessories such as ridge ventilators and roof-mounted fans. Exhaust air is often warm, humid and/or polluted due to manufacturing or production processes.
- Gravity Ventilation: A natural way to encourage airflow through a building, aided by strategic openings throughout a space. Gravity vents and louvers are key components of the gravity ventilation process.
- Mechanical Ventilation: A ventilation approach that moves fresh air into and through a space with help from ducts and electric fans.
- Passive Ventilation: A means of moving fresh air into and through a space with help from air pressure and strategically placed openings throughout the building. Passive ventilation works without the assistance of electrical components.
Metal building ventilation can seem complex at times, but it feels much more manageable when you understand the turns of phrase. If you have questions on these or any other terms related to your metal building projects — or if you’re interested in learning more about our range of metal building accessories — feel free to reach out. Our experts are always happy to help.
