October 29, 2003—Scientists at the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) have invented an aerosol-based system called MASIS to seal the ducts of large commercial buildings. MASIS, which stands for “mobile aerosol-sealant injection system,” is based on the aerosol duct-sealing device developed by LBNL researchers to seal ducts and reduce energy loss in residential and small commercial systems. Two new patented technologies permit effective sealing in the larger, more complicated duct systems of commercial buildings.
The prototype induced-cooling pneumatic atomizer is made with standard tube fittings. A new atomizer prevents nozzle clogging by using high-velocity heated gas, which mixes and dries the liquid sealant to cool an insulating layer of ambient-temperature air, explains LBNL.
The system seals these ducts remotely and inexpensively, using an aerosol that is injected into the ducts through the building’s heating register. The aerosol flows through the system, gradually building up a flexible seal at holes, tears, and other duct leaks.
Although LBNL research continues to quantify the losses in commercial buildings, scientists there estimate that sealing ducts in these buildings could potentially save billions of BTUs of natural gas and billions of kilowatt-hours of electricity.
For more information contact Allan Chen at 510/486-4210.
