What Are The Different Types Of Ventilation?

As a business owner or administrator for a company, you may already know that your workplace building needs some type of clean air solution. Clean air systems not only provide areas with clean, fresh air (which is integral for employee health) but, depending on the type, can also rid the environment of harmful toxins, fumes and gases.

But which ventilation is the best choice for you and your industry? Our informative guide highlights all.

The 7 Essential Types of Ventilation Systems:

1.     Natural ventilation

Probably the most well-known form of ventilation is natural ventilation. This refers to an ongoing supply of clean air from natural sources which, in most cases, is the most ideal type of ventilation for a building.

These typically depend on natural forces, such as wind and thermal buoyancy, to drive the outdoor air throughout the buildings.

However, the three main factors required for natural ventilation to be effective are:

See the table for more details:

2. Mechanised fan ventilation

Mechanised fans are generally installed directly into the windows or air ducts of a building to supply air both to, or from, an environment. This provides buildings with internal air which is extracted via the fan in a controlled approach.

However, it’s important to note that this type of ventilation usually depends on the weather, as they are designed to inject clean air and expel stale oxygen.

For example, the infiltration of particles may need to be reduced in humid conditions, while the exfiltration may need to be prevented during colder periods, which would minimise condensation.

3. Smoke ventilation

In public buildings, it is a legal requirement to provide smoke ventilation in the event of a fire. This helps to alleviate the thick build-up of condensed smoke if a fire were to break out. This helps to provide a clearer escape route to anyone trapped in a fire.

4. Supply ventilation

Supply ventilation generally works by pressurising the building, which forces external oxygen particles inside via a fan. This type of ventilation is especially common within living room and bedroom areas, as this provides the best air quality for homeowners in living spaces.

5. Exhaust ventilation

This type of ventilation works by depressurising the building, which reduces the inside air pressure so that it falls below the outdoor air pressure. The exhaust mechanism then works by sucking out the stale air, which is then replaced by fresh air from a different source (usually an air vent).

This type of ventilation is commonly found in bathrooms or kitchens where a lot of steam can build up and needs filtrating out.

6. Balanced ventilation

A mix of both exhaust ventilation and supply ventilation, balanced ventilation works by neither pressurising nor depressurising a building. Instead, this type of ventilation looks to inject and exhume the same level of air by positioning several fans and duct systems in the most efficient positions around the environment.

7. Ozone-Based Cleaning Ventilation

An emerging trend in industrial processes, particularly in the printing sector, is the use of ozone to clean parts before they undergo further processing. This method is highly effective in removing contaminants, ensuring that the final product meets stringent quality standards. It's vital to incorporate a dedicated ventilation system to control ozone and other byproducts. This is essential for preserving air quality and guaranteeing worker safety in such settings.

Clean Air Systems for Hazardous Fumes

A key part of ensuring that the air is ventilated is important to remove harmful fumes and toxins from the area. In business workplaces especially, there can be a build-up of hazardous gases and particles such as ABS filament fumes, which can cause detrimental effects on employee health, the environment, and the products and equipment used.

At Purex, we offer a comprehensive range of fume extraction systems tailored to various industries, including 3D printing, dental practices and electronics. Discover how our fume extraction solutions can benefit your business, by exploring our case studies, or contact our team for more information on workplace safety. Additionally, ensure the effectiveness of your current system by booking an LEV (Local Exhaust Ventilation) Test. Get in touch with us today to enhance your air quality and ensure a safe working environment.

GET IN TOUCH

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I determine the best ventilation system for my commercial space?

Assess the specific needs of your space, considering factors such as air quality requirements, energy efficiency, and existing infrastructure. Contact Purex today and let us help you.

How can I improve air quality in my commercial space?

Implementing a suitable ventilation system, regularly maintaining existing systems, and using high-efficiency filters can significantly improve air quality.

How often should I check my existing ventilation system?

It’s recommended to have your system checked annually to ensure it is functioning correctly and efficiently.