Plenum ventilation is a technique commonly used in HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) systems. The word plenum comes from the Latin word plēnum, meaning full or complete. In English, plenum is pronounced /ˈpliː.nəm/, with the stress on the first syllable. Ventilation is the process of supplying fresh air to a space. It is pronounced /ˌvɛn.tɪˈleɪ.ʃən/. Therefore, the correct pronunciation for plenum ventilation is /ˈpliː.nəm ˌvɛn.tɪˈleɪ.ʃən/.
Plenum ventilation is a type of ventilation system used in buildings or enclosed spaces that is designed to distribute and circulate fresh air evenly throughout the entire space.
In a plenum ventilation system, fresh air is supplied into a large plenum chamber or distribution area located above the ceiling or below the floor. From this central plenum, the air is then distributed through ducts or diffusers into the occupied space. The air is then returned to the plenum through return vents or grilles, where it is mixed with the newly supplied fresh air. This continuous circulation of air helps maintain a high air quality and comfortable environment for the occupants.
One of the main advantages of plenum ventilation is its ability to distribute fresh air more evenly and uniformly compared to other ventilation systems. It helps prevent stagnant air pockets and provides consistent airflow throughout the entire space, reducing the chances of hot or cold spots. Plenum ventilation also allows for greater control over temperature, humidity, and air quality by integrating air handling units, filters, and other components into the plenum system.
Additionally, plenum ventilation systems can be more energy efficient compared to other forms of ventilation, as they can be designed to incorporate heat recovery systems that capture and reuse the thermal energy from the exhaust air to pre-condition the incoming fresh air.
Plenum ventilation is commonly used in commercial buildings, offices, schools, hospitals, and other large spaces where maintaining good air quality and comfort is essential.
Ventilation by forcing fresh air into a room by means of a fan or blower, the foul air escaping through the doors or windows; a hot-air furnace affords plenum v.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "plenum" originates from Latin, where it means "full" or "complete". It entered the English language in the late 16th century.
"Ventilation", on the other hand, comes from the Latin word "ventus", meaning "wind". It has been used in English since the mid-17th century and refers to the process of supplying fresh air to a designated space or removing stale air from it.
When combined, "plenum ventilation" refers to a type of ventilation system in which fresh air is forced into a space under pressure, filling it completely and ensuring proper air circulation.