plenumriser

A plenumriser is a vertical shaft or passage used in building construction to convey air between a plenum and another part of the building's ventilation system. A plenum is typically an enclosed space within a building that serves as part of the air distribution system, often located above a suspended ceiling or below a raised floor. Air is supplied to or exhausted from a plenum, and then distributed to various occupied spaces through ductwork or directly.

The plenumriser's function is to facilitate the upward or downward movement of this air. In many HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems, the space above a suspended ceiling acts as a supply or return air plenum. The plenumriser then connects this plenum to other levels or zones within the building. This can be for supplying fresh air, exhausting stale air, or facilitating the return of air to the central HVAC unit.

Plenumrisers can also be integrated into smoke control systems. In the event of a fire, they might be used to channel smoke to a specific exhaust point or to supply fresh air to keep escape routes clear. The design and construction of plenumrisers must adhere to building codes and fire safety regulations to prevent the spread of fire and smoke through these vertical pathways. Materials used for plenumrisers are often fire-rated to minimize this risk. The precise configuration and purpose of a plenumriser depend on the specific building design and its mechanical systems.