Pressure Drop
Pressure drop refers to the resistance to airflow across an open damper. In simple terms, it is a metric used to determine the amount of turbulence produced as air passes through a damper. Pressure drop is measured in inches of water gauge (in. W.G.) or Pascals (Pa) at a specified velocity.
Turbulence is caused by damper components such as the frame, blades, blade stops, internally mounted actuators, jackshafts, internal linkage, or blade seals. Essentially, all parts of the damper within the airstream can contribute to turbulence. This loss of pressure increases the energy required within the system to compensate for the loss and maintain airflow. Higher energy requirements translate to increased operational costs.
The Air Movement and Control Association International, Inc. (AMCA) has established standards for laboratory testing methods to rate dampers. These standards, referred to as AMCA 500-D, include standardized figures for testing damper pressure drop performance. Each figure represents a specific airflow configuration, such as a ducted entrance or in-duct setup. When comparing the pressure drop performance of different dampers, it is essential to know the test figure and airflow velocity used to ensure accurate projections of pressure drop performance within a system.
Tamco pressure drop charts provide pressure drop for various damper sizes, velocities, and AMCA figures.
Pressure Drop Charts
Pressure Drop Charts for TAMCO Series 1000 and 1500
Pressure Drop Charts for TAMCO Series 9000 and 9000 BF