Global Company Expands Service Center in Mumbai with Innovative Fabric Duct System

Hyundai Merchant Marine (HMM) has successfully expanded its Global Service Center (GSC) in Mumbai, India, integrating cutting-edge fabric ductwork to enhance comfort, aesthetics, and air quality in their new 12,000 square foot office. The GSC, with 110 workstations, will serve as a hub for various operations, including Accounts Payable (AP), Long Idling, Documentation, and Customer Service process migration.

Rahul Patil, Engineering Manager for FabricAir in India designed and engineered the fabric ductwork which was chosen for its ability to deliver uniform, noiseless airflow—a critical factor in creating a comfortable and productive office environment. Fabric ductwork accommodates both large open spaces and individual enclosed offices with low ceilings, ensuring optimal indoor air quality throughout the workspace.

One of the standout features of the fabric duct system is its integration with the office’s interior design. The blue fabric ducts, made from Combi 20—a permeable, flame-retardant fabric that is Oeko-Tex 100 certified—were enhanced with the HMM logo. The logo, applied using a durable heat-transfer method, is guaranteed not to fade over time, even with regular washing.

The system utilizes FabricAir’s Type 1 cable suspension system, which is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. This suspension method involves hanging the ducts on a horizontal cable using clips. The system also includes 360° hoops that maintain the ducts’ form, ensuring they remain visually appealing even when the HVAC system is not in operation. These hoops can be easily removed for laundering, contributing to the long-term maintenance and durability of the system.

To meet the specific airflow requirements of the office, a combination of FabFlow and SonicFlow models was employed. FabFlow allows low-velocity air to exit through the permeable fabric, preventing drafts and creating a comfortable atmosphere. SonicFlow, directs air through laser-cut perforations in the fabric, providing precise air distribution based on the static pressure inside the duct.

The installation process was both fast and efficient, making the fabric duct system an ideal solution for this new space. The system’s durability, ease of installation, and maintenance, combined with its ability to enhance office aesthetics and air quality, make it a compelling choice for HVAC contractors and engineers working on similar commercial applications.

As Hyundai Merchant Marine continues to expand its operations in Mumbai, the advanced fabric duct system will ensure a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing environment for its employees.

 

Additional Information

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