Flexible Ducting

Flexible ducting can be tubes, hoses, canals or pipes that are used in ductwork designed to funnel, dust fumes and abrasive materials from one location to another. Some ducting pipes can also handle liquids. Flexible duct is used across many different industries. Comes in a variety of sizes and materials.

Used in:

• Chemical industry
• Agriculture
• Automotive industry
• Food industry
• Air conditioning
• Construction industry

Flexible Ducting Works?

The basic principle behind flexible ducting is its ability to create a sealed and protected pathway. The flexible nature of the material, often reinforced with a wire helix, allows it to bend and stretch, connecting two points without the need for custom-fabricated, rigid sections. This makes it ideal for reaching components in tight spaces or for connecting moving parts.

The internal lining of the flexible air duct is designed to handle specific media, from abrasive particles to corrosive fumes, ensuring safe and contained transport. This simple yet effective design is what makes flexible ducting a foundational element in ventilation and material handling systems.

Applications of Flexible Ducting

Flexible ducting is a versatile solution used in a wide array of industrial and commercial applications. The specific type of flexible duct chosen depends on the nature of the media being transported and the environmental conditions.

Construction Industry

In the construction industry, flexible ducting is crucial for site safety and air quality. It is used for dust collection from power tools, preventing the buildup of hazardous particles and maintaining a clean working environment. It also plays a key role in temporary ventilation, providing fresh air to confined spaces.

Agriculture

In agriculture, flexible ducting and flexible pipe ducting are used for conveying a range of materials. This includes the transport of grains and animal feed, as well as for the extraction of dust and fumes from processing areas. The durability of heavy-duty flexible ducting makes it suitable for handling abrasive materials like sugar and grain.

Automotive Industry

The automotive sector relies on flexible ducting for fume and exhaust extraction. A flexible air duct hose is connected to vehicle exhausts to channel harmful gases away from the workspace, ensuring the safety of mechanics and technicians.

Food Industry

In the food industry, food-grade flexible ducting is used for the hygienic and safe transport of dry food products like flour, sugar, and grains. The smooth interior surfaces of these ducts prevent material buildup and make them easy to clean, adhering to strict food safety standards.

Air Conditioning & Ventilation

A flexible air duct is a standard component in HVAC systems. It is used to distribute conditioned air throughout a building, easily fitting into tight ceiling spaces and around existing structures. It is a cost-effective and efficient alternative to rigid metal ducts.

Flexible Ducting Types

Choosing the right kind of flexible ducting is critical for performance and safety. RS offers a wide variety of flexible ducting supplies to meet diverse application needs.

By Material

• PVC Flexible Ducting: Known for its excellent chemical resistance and durability. PVC flexible ducting is a popular choice for light to medium-duty applications, including fume extraction and dust collection.
• Polyurethane (PUR): Offers superior abrasion resistance and is ideal for conveying abrasive materials like sawdust, grains, and wood chips.
• Aluminium & Steel: These materials are used for high-temperature applications, such as exhaust systems and welding fume extraction.

By Application/Duty

• Heavy-Duty Flexible Ducting: Designed with reinforced walls to withstand the transport of highly abrasive materials. It is a robust solution for demanding environments.
• Anti-Static Ducting: Essential in areas where static electricity could pose a fire or explosion risk. It safely dissipates static charges, making it suitable for volatile environments.

By Reinforcement

• Wire-reinforced: A steel wire helix is embedded within the material to provide structural support, prevent collapse under vacuum, and maintain a consistent diameter.
• Non-reinforced: These ducts are more flexible and are typically used for low-pressure ventilation and extraction tasks.

How to Install Flexible Ducting

Installing flexible ducting requires careful attention to ensure it operates efficiently and safely. Here is a general guide to the key steps:

1. Preparation: Before you begin, gather all necessary tools and materials, including the flexible ducting, duct clamps or ties, and a sharp knife or shears. Ensure the ducting is the correct size for your application and is free from any damage.
2. Cutting: Carefully cut the ducting to the desired length using a sharp utility knife or shears. A clean, straight cut will ensure a secure connection. Be mindful of the wire helix if your ducting is reinforced, as this can be sharp.
3. Connecting: Slide the cut end of the flexible ducting over the connecting collar or fitting. Ensure the ducting covers a sufficient length of the fitting to create a strong seal.
4. Securing: Use duct clamps, ties, or tape to secure the connection. The clamp or tie should be tightened firmly but not so much that it crushes the ducting.
5. Routing: Route the ducting along its path, avoiding sharp bends, kinks, or sags. Overly sharp bends can restrict airflow and reduce efficiency, while sags can trap moisture or debris. For the best performance, the ducting should be stretched as taut as possible.
6. Sealing: After the ducting is secured, seal all connections with a high-quality sealant tape to prevent air leaks. This is crucial for maintaining the efficiency of the entire system.

How to Choose the Right Flexible Ducting

Selecting the appropriate flexible ducting is critical for the success and safety of your project. Consider the following factors:

1. Application: What will the ducting be used for? Is it for ventilation, fume extraction, or conveying abrasive materials like sawdust? The application dictates the type of material and reinforcement needed.
2. Material: Choose a material that is compatible with what you're conveying. For example, PVC flexible ducting is good for general use and chemical resistance, while polyurethane (PUR) is preferred for handling abrasive materials due to its superior durability. For high temperatures, consider aluminum or steel.
3. Size: The internal diameter (ID) of the ducting must match the size of your fittings and the required airflow or material flow rate.
4. Reinforcement: Flexible ducting is often reinforced with a wire helix. This provides structural integrity and prevents the duct from collapsing under vacuum pressure, which is common in extraction systems.
5. Environment: Consider the environmental conditions, such as temperature extremes and potential chemical exposure, to ensure the ducting will perform reliably over time.

Buy Flexible Ducting Online from RS Australia

RS is a top manufacturer, supplier, and distributor of flexible ducting in Australia, offering a wide selection from leading brands like Contitech, Prosiflex and RS PRO. Our catalogue also includes other essential tools like high temperature heat shrink tubing, 4 core wires and wall mounted storage containers.

You can easily purchase all your flexible ducting supplies online with our nationwide doorstep delivery service. For full details on delivery services and fees, please visit our Delivery page.