Armstrong Ceiling & Wall Solutions has introduced AirAssure™ ceiling systems that self-seal into the ceiling grid to prevent air leaks. When placed in a standard ceiling suspension system, AirAssure panels form a tight seal and reduce airflow leakage through the ceiling plane up to four times more than panels without AirAssure performance.
Reducing air leaks can significantly increase the effectiveness of air ventilation and filtration systems, particularly where ventilation systems may have limited capacity to increase airflow or add fresh air. A tighter sealed room also allows more air to flow through return air vents where it can be filtered or purified. AirAssure panels allow ventilation systems to filter up to 40 percent more air. Unlike other solutions used to help prevent air leakage that may impede accessibility to HVAC and other plenum systems, AirAssure panels can be easily accessed when required.
Multiple Retrofit Options
Retrofitting existing rooms with AirAssure panels is an easy, affordable way to reduce air leakage and help improve air quality. They enable easy conversion to negative or positive pressure-controlled spaces without hold-down clips. They also allow conversion of existing spaces to containment areas quickly using existing suspension systems. In buildings where the air space above ceilings is shared among multiple rooms, AirAssure can help reduce the risk of pathogen transfer between rooms.
According to air testing specialist, Timothy Roaten, President of Eastern Air Balance, a certified firm that tests air flows in buildings, “The single largest surface that needs to be sealed is the ceiling. This is vital for schools and senior living facilities as they are being encouraged to create isolation rooms to control the airflow and potential spread of airborne particles.”
Aesthetics Plus Acoustics
Aesthetically, the ceiling panels measure 24″ x 24″ and are offered in two visuals: Ultima® Health Zone™ AirAssure™ panels which feature a smooth texture and Calla® Health Zone™ AirAssure™ panels which have a smooth, drywall-like finish. Both panels are part of the Total Acoustics® portfolio and offer performance that provides an ideal combination of sound absorption (NRC) and sound blocking (CAC) in the same panel to provide both noise control and floor plan flexibility.
AirAssure panels are also part of the Armstrong® 24/7 Defend™ portfolio of ceiling and wall products that contribute to healthier, safer spaces and cleaner air. The growing line of products includes Armstrong’s new VidaShield UV24™ in-ceiling ultraviolet air purification system that works in coordination with AirAssure panels. The new portfolio also includes Infusions™ resilient partitions, and the CleanAssure™ family of disinfectable panels, suspension systems, and trim. AirAssure panels are also part of the Armstrong® Sustain® portfolio and meet the most stringent sustainability compliance standards today.
For more information about AirAssure ceilings, visit armstrongceilings.com/airassure. For more information about other ceiling and wall solutions Armstrong offers for healthier spaces, visit armstrongceilings.com/healthyspaces. If help is needed, reach an Armstrong TechLine expert at armstrongceilings.com/techline.
About Armstrong World Industries
Armstrong World Industries, Inc. (AWI) is a leader in the design and manufacture of innovative commercial and residential ceiling, wall and suspension system solutions in the Americas. With over $1 billion in revenue in 2019, AWI has about 2,500 employees and a manufacturing network of 14 facilities plus five plants dedicated to its WAVE joint venture.