Technically, speed is the most valuable asset for both new construction and refurbishment building projects. Faster installation of ductwork systems can contribute towards reducing project duration periods. Since ductwork is critical to any construction project, construction periods and time extensions can be further reduced with the introduction of new generation E3Panel ductwork system.   ‘Instad Pre-fabrication Pte Ltd’ has conducted a study to examine between insulated galvanised sheet metal ductwork and the E3Panel ductwork system on their relative performance with regards to the speed of the installation. The findings from the analysis is computed with the complete range of ductwork activities ranging from forming to installation of duct on-site using 1,000m2 of ductwork. It clearly shows that the installation of ductwork from E3Panel required only 861 labour man-hours compared to the installation and insulation activity of the galvanised sheet steel ductwork which amounted to 1,303 labour man-hours. This could easily translate into 34% savings in labour man-hours by simply employing the E3Panel ductwork system.

The common issue that installers usually face at work is having insufficient headroom space when installing ductwork systems on roof slabs. As a result, space efficiency for mechanical and electrical services are becoming increasingly important in both the construction of new buildings and the refurbishment of existing buildings. For space efficiency to be delivered, it must remain high on the project agenda throughout the activity briefing and building design stages, especially where mechanical and electrical services are concerned.   E3Panel is commendable for its space saving benefits by eliminating the space required to manually install another separate layer of insulation around the ductwork. Similarly, it possesses the capability of being constructed with flush joints between ductwork sections to make it possible for ductwork installation flat against building structural elements.     As a result, E3Panel maximises space available for other mechanical and electrical service installations and in some cases, reducing the space required for other service sectors. This was particularly advantageous for main riser E3Panel ductwork and with early design consideration, it will lead to a marginal increase in useable floor space. Since mechanical and electrical service co-ordination is often an area of risk for construction programs, any risk-mitigating properties are always a useful attribute.

E3Panel ductwork offers several benefits when comparing with insulated galvanised sheet steel and mineral fibre duct board ductwork systems:  

1. Fibre Free Insulation Core

E3Panel eliminates the risk of loose fibres entering the airstream of our body through the ductwork system as distributed air does not come into contact with an insulation that produces loose fibres.  

2. Cost Saving For Duct Support

E3Panel is a fraction of the weight to galvanised sheet steel ductwork system which can be heavy and thus require substantial support.  

3. Faster Installation Speed

E3Panel is installed using a proprietary method of Pre-Fabricated and Pre-Insulated (PFPI) without the need for the manual lagging process of insulating ductwork after it has been installed.  

4. Less Reliance On Manpower

E3Panel is proven to be comparatively lightweight which benefits Installer to use less manpower to install its ductwork system.  

5. Ductwork Easily Modified On-site

Ductwork can be installed flush to the roof slab since E3Panel ductwork does not need to be insulated.