Can the installation of an UFAD system eliminate the need for a hung ceiling?
By locating the main air distribution components within an underfloor plenum, through which supply air can flow freely, UFAD systems eliminate the need for sizeable ceiling ducts and plenums. In terms of return air, the same principle applies as that for supply – air can either flow within an open plenum above a hung ceiling, or if desired, the ceiling can be eliminated altogether when an alternative means of removing return air from the space is provided. Options include high side-wall return or exposed return ducts below the ceiling plane. Eliminating drop ceilings have the benefit of increasing architectural opportunities for creative internal design, enhancing daylighting and artificial lighting effects. However, if the conventional suspended acoustic tile ceiling is eliminated, leaving an exposed concrete ceiling or other configuration, careful consideration must be made of the acoustic quality of the space.
