New solutions are incorporating technologies that seek to optimize energy efficiency, improve air quality, and facilitate integration with IoT systems.
by Álvaro León Pérez Sepúlveda
According to experts in the field, these new technological bets not only improve the operation of pipelines, but also reflect a greater trend towards the construction of smarter and more sustainable environments in regions such as Latin America.
"There are currently many innovative solutions that have been transformed thanks to the new technologies and materials available. Thus, applications that were previously unimaginable or impossible can be observed," says Brenda Aguilar, HVAC leader for Costa Rica at the Copper Group.
One of the most outstanding innovations is the use of IoT sensors that allow different variables to be monitored and adjusted in real time. "Smart sensors strategically placed inside ductwork collect data on temperature, airflow, humidity levels, and more. This data is then transmitted to a centralized system, giving technicians instant access to critical information. Preventive maintenance becomes a reality thanks to the ability to identify potential problems before they become serious," highlights the HVAC Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Association.
The U.S. organization also emphasizes that connectivity comes hand in hand with the challenge of cybersecurity, so protecting these systems from potential online threats is essential, especially in an increasingly connected world.
On the other hand, new materials are being used in the manufacture of pipelines, such as advanced polymers and antimicrobial coatings. These materials not only extend the life of the system, but also improve air quality by preventing the growth of bacteria and mold.
"For example, rigid foam panel ducts are made of materials such as polyisocyanurate (PIR) or polyurethane, which offer greater thermal efficiency, lower weight, which reduces leakage compared to traditional HG ductwork. Another particularity of this type of panel is that thanks to its weight and others, the same ducts can be manufactured, that is, cut and assembled at the same site of the project," explains Aguilar.
Likewise, the use of textile ducts is on the rise for different types of applications. This is confirmed by engineer William Gabriel Campos, CEO - Director of Operations of the company DUCTecol International, when he states that "textile ducts are a highly efficient solution that optimizes air distribution, reduces structural weight and minimizes the accumulation of pollutants both inside and outside them".
According to the executive, the advance in technical textile materials has allowed the manufacture of ducts with properties as diverse as antimicrobial ducts, fungicides, chemical resistance, fireproof, resistant to high temperatures, fire retardants, graphic customization, among many others.
"This ensures healthier and safer environments for a myriad of commercial and industrial applications. DUCTecoL leads the implementation of textile ducts, integrating state-of-the-art technologies into its solutions, offering unique systems that maximize thermal comfort, facilitate installation and reduce time and costs compared to conventional ducting systems," adds Campos.
Energy efficiency is another key focus. Aerodynamic designs and advanced sealing systems have been developed that minimise air losses and reduce energy consumption. At the same time, prefabrication and modular systems that improve precision, reduce waste and optimize installation times on site are gaining ground. The material with which these ducts are mostly manufactured is galvanized iron and some go with different types of coatings such as fiberglass wool or specific insulation necessary for each project.
Industries such as medical and food make widespread use of ducts with antimicrobial and self-cleaning coatings. This type of solution incorporates technologies to prevent the accumulation of pollutants and improve indoor air quality (IAQ). The application of UV lamps is also used inside the ducts, which, together with sensors and intelligent IOT monitoring, optimize energy consumption, while generating more effective cleaning and purification of the air.
Finally, digital design tools have made it possible to create pipeline systems with greater precision and adaptability. This translates into more efficient systems adapted to the specific needs of each building. "There are automated duct manufacturing systems where a computer and software generate the indications of cuts and assemblies with accuracy, reducing errors and material waste, for square, round and spiroduct ducts," explains Brenda Aguilar.
Energy efficiency and sustainability
The new characteristics of HVAC ductwork have a significant impact on the energy efficiency and sustainability of projects developed in Latin American countries. By incorporating IoT sensors and devices, it's as if buildings develop a "sixth sense" that allows them to continuously adjust environmental conditions to optimize energy consumption.
"Innovations, especially textile air distribution and diffusion systems, have allowed a significant reduction in energy consumption and a lower environmental impact. Textile ducts improve the uniformity of airflow within spaces, reducing the need for overpressurization and, consequently, optimizing energy use," highlights William Gabriel Campos.
In turn, the HVAC leader for Costa Rica of the Copper Group company points out that the reduction of thermal losses is one of the main positive impacts of new ducting solutions in general, "since advanced materials minimize heat transfer, reducing the load on HVAC systems and reducing energy consumption. Ducts with lower resistance to airflow reduce pressure on fans and HVAC units, resulting in lower electricity demand."
It should be noted that all these factors affect the longer useful life of HVAC systems because the wear and tear of the components is reduced, as well as the frequency of maintenance and premature replacements. In addition, ducting based on materials with low environmental impact also contributes to reducing the carbon footprint of projects.
"These systems eliminate the need for additional insulation and use 100% recyclable materials, aligning with the principles of sustainability and circular economy," says the CEO - Director of Operations of DUCTecol International, a company that also supports companies and projects in strategies to reduce their carbon footprint and obtain high-efficiency certifications such as LEED.
Brenda Aguilar Arce agrees that "these solutions collaborate significantly in projects that seek certifications such as LEED or EDGE, which encourage more sustainable and energy-efficient constructions. An important fact is that many financings with banks and other entities can depend on one of these certifications, so the contribution of a pipeline, no matter how simple it may seem, is very significant."
Remaining challenges
The pipeline installation and maintenance sector faces significant challenges in aspects such as adapting to new regulatory requirements, supply chain continuity and labor availability, among others.
With regard to regulatory compliance, some Latin American countries are in the process of updating their building and energy efficiency codes, which forces companies to keep up to date and adapt to new technical requirements.
"Companies have had to innovate to comply with increasingly stringent environmental regulations. The use of lighter, recyclable materials with less impact on indoor air quality has been key in this adaptation. In this context, textile ducts have established themselves as a highly efficient, sustainable and hygienic alternative, as they minimize the accumulation of particles and reduce material waste during their installation," says William Gabriel Campos.
Other aspects that concern the sector are the scarcity and the increase in the price of materials. Supply chain issues lead to increases in the cost of key inputs such as galvanized sheets, thermal insulation, and sealants. This forces manufacturers and contractors to look for alternative suppliers and optimize waste or even make investments to manufacture it themselves.
In terms of the availability of skilled labor, some regions of Latin America have had a shortage of technicians specialized in pipeline installation and maintenance, which can delay projects and increase labor costs. In view of the situation, training and certification programs are key to guaranteeing quality standards in the region.
Meanwhile, the distribution and transportation of high-volume pipelines remains a challenge, especially in cities with traffic restrictions or in hard-to-reach areas. The trend toward modular and prefabricated ductwork has helped reduce this problem.
Finally, the HVAC ducting sector faces competition with alternative solutions, i.e., emerging technologies such as ductless HVAC systems (VRF, mini splits, cassettes, floor ceiling). "These alternatives are gaining ground in certain segments due to the cost involved in the installation of ducts, which forces pipeline manufacturers to innovate and justify the added value of their solutions in terms of efficiency, elegance and comfort for their choice," concludes Brenda Aguilar, from the company Copper Group.
Álvaro León Pérez Sepúlveda: Social Communicator Journalist graduated from the University of Antioquia, with more than 14 years of experience in journalistic media and digital communication projects.
