1. Wall-Mounted Air Intakes
These are installed on building facades (external walls). Most commonly, wall-mounted air intakes have a square or round shape and are manufactured from steel. This type of intake is used in central air conditioning and ventilation systems. Their role is to prevent various types of contaminants or insects from entering the building's ventilation. To fulfill this function, wall-mounted air intakes are equipped with specialized mesh and louvers.
Wall-mounted intakes can also be integrated with heat recovery (recuperation) systems. This type is used in modern, energy-efficient buildings to reduce the energy demand required for heating or cooling. Generally, these systems consist of two different ventilation paths: the first exhausts unpleasant odors (e.g., from bathrooms or kitchens), while the second supplies fresh outdoor air into the building. A heat exchanger installed within the system allows for maintaining a comfortable air temperature inside the facility.
2. Roof-Mounted Air Intakes
These are typically made of stainless or enameled steel, though they can also be constructed from concrete or plastics. The choice of material depends on several factors, such as the building’s architecture or climatic conditions. They are situated on rooftops as the termination of a ventilation duct. Roof-mounted intakes come in various models, allowing them to be matched to different roof shapes. Like wall-mounted versions, they feature protection against debris. The advantage of these intakes is their location, as utilizing the natural force of the wind facilitates the delivery of fresh air into the building. Precise design and sizing—accounting for the building’s scale and purpose—are crucial to ensure specific air quality needs are met.
3. Ground-Level Air Intakes
This type of intake is installed at the ground level, often near the base of the building. This positioning allows for drawing in air at a lower temperature. Although this type is used relatively rarely, it is justified in certain types of facilities.
4. Freestanding Air Intakes
This type is installed outdoors at a certain distance from the building. It is used when the building's structure does not permit installation on the walls or roof, or when there is a need to minimize the risk of drawing in dusty air from the immediate vicinity of the facade.
Which type of air intake should you choose?
Every solution has its pros and cons. Roof-mounted intakes are the most popular, commonly installed in industrial and residential buildings. However, the best choice depends on many parameters that must be taken into account during the design phase.
Functions of Air Intakes
Air intakes are a vital component of any comprehensive ventilation system. They are present in both small residential buildings and large industrial facilities.
1.Air Supply: This is the primary and most important function. The device supplies fresh, filtered air from the environment, which is essential for the proper functioning of the entire facility.
2. Ventilation Duct Protection: Due to their design, air intakes protect the ventilation shafts from rain, snow, hail, as well as insects, birds, and rodents. The intake should also be well-secured against strong, gusty winds.
Summary
In conclusion, an air intake is an essential device for the operation of industrial, commercial, and residential buildings. To select the most optimal intake, several parameters must be considered, primarily: the building's fresh air requirement, the maximum expected airflow, and the intake's location.
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