What do insulated ducts typically use to manage heat transfer?

Insulated ducts commonly use fiberglass blankets to manage heat transfer effectively. Fiberglass is an excellent insulator due to its low thermal conductivity, which helps maintain the desired temperature of the air being transported through the ducts. This material reduces heat loss in heated air and heat gain in cooled air, contributing to energy efficiency in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.

In addition, the lightweight and flexible nature of fiberglass blankets makes them easy to install around various duct shapes and sizes, ensuring comprehensive coverage that minimizes thermal bridging, where heat can escape through the ductwork. Furthermore, fiberglass insulation is resistant to moisture and can help prevent condensation from forming on the duct surface, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy indoor environment.

While other materials like aluminum sheets or silicone rubber can serve various purposes in construction and mechanical applications, they do not offer the same thermal insulation properties as fiberglass blankets when it comes to managing heat transfer in ductwork.