What is the term for the compartment that connects an air handling unit to the ductwork in an HVAC system?

What is the term for the compartment that connects an air handling unit to the ductwork in an HVAC system?

• A. Plenum
• B. Flue
• C. Damper
• D. Blower

Answer: (A)

In HVAC, the compartment that connects the air handling unit to the ductwork is a plenum. It’s a larger air chamber that collects conditioned air from the AHU and then distributes it into the supply ducts (supply plenum) or returns air back to the system (return plenum). The plenum provides a smooth transition, helps even out air distribution, and gives space to connect multiple ducts and any balancing devices. It also aids in reducing noise and managing pressure changes as air moves from the unit into the duct system. For contrast, a flue carries combustion exhaust, a damper controls airflow, and a blower is the fan that moves the air.

In HVAC, the compartment that connects the air handling unit to the ductwork is a plenum. It’s a larger air chamber that collects conditioned air from the AHU and then distributes it into the supply ducts (supply plenum) or returns air back to the system (return plenum). The plenum provides a smooth transition, helps even out air distribution, and gives space to connect multiple ducts and any balancing devices. It also aids in reducing noise and managing pressure changes as air moves from the unit into the duct system. For contrast, a flue carries combustion exhaust, a damper controls airflow, and a blower is the fan that moves the air.