How thick must concrete encasement be for metallic ducts without a protective coating?

The requirement for concrete encasement thickness for metallic ducts without a protective coating is set forth in various building codes and standards to ensure adequate protection against potential damage and corrosion. A thickness of 2 inches is deemed sufficient to offer a meaningful level of protection, particularly in preventing physical impacts and providing a barrier to moisture and other environmental factors that could compromise the integrity of the metal ducts.

This specification balances safety and practicality, allowing for robust protection without over-engineering, which can increase costs and weight unnecessarily. A thickness of 1 inch would not provide adequate protection in many applications, while options thicker than 2 inches may be excessive unless specific circumstances dictate otherwise. Adhering to building codes regarding encasement thickness helps ensure compliance and structural integrity while maintaining efficient resource usage.