Upgrading Ventilation at a Key Community Facility

The Amorós Sports Center in Madrid is a modern facility that serves as an important space for local sports and recreational activities. As part of a comprehensive renovation, project leaders identified the need to upgrade the indoor swimming pool’s ventilation system to improve air quality, occupant comfort, and energy efficiency.

Indoor pools require specialized climate control solutions due to persistent high humidity and the risk of odor from water evaporation. Poor ventilation in these settings can lead to uncomfortable drafts, uneven air distribution, and reduced comfort for swimmers and spectators alike.

Large blue fabric duct system ensures comfort and high-quality indoor air for an indoor swimming pool in Madrid

Alliance and Partners, responsible for the project’s technical management, worked with FabricAir to develop a customized air distribution solution for the pool environment.

Custom Air Distribution System for Indoor Pool Conditions

The design team at FabricAir engineered a fully customized fabric duct system for the indoor pool based on the facility’s layout and usage patterns. One of the key challenges was creating a connection between the indoor ductwork and an outdoor dehumidifier via a rooftop plenum in a confined space. Traditional sheet metal ducts were not a viable option for this connection. Instead, a textile manifold was installed, providing a flexible and removable solution that allows for easy disassembly and maintenance using zippers.

Esmimar, a company specializing in fabric duct installations, completed the installation. The system includes 100 meters of blue fabric ducts made from Combi 90 fabric, a material selected for its durability and resistance to corrosion in high-humidity environments such as natatoriums. Combi 90 is also easy to maintain, ensuring long-term system performance.

The SonicFlow airflow model was selected to provide consistent, draft-free air distribution. This ensures consistent fresh air throughout the space, helping to eliminate excess humidity. The ductwork was installed using the Type 08 All-In-One suspension system, which simplifies installation and maintenance while supporting the aesthetics and function of the space.

Results: Consistent Airflow and Improved Indoor Conditions

Since the installation, the indoor climate at the Amorós Sports Center pool has significantly improved. Swimmers and spectators report a more comfortable environment with uniform temperature and airflow that avoids drafts. Humidity levels have stabilized, reducing odors and improving air quality.

The fabric ducts also contribute to the facility’s modern design, while materials like Combi 90 and the All-In-One suspension system reduce maintenance requirements and extend system longevity.

This project highlights the adaptability and effectiveness of fabric ducting in addressing the unique challenges of indoor swimming pool environments.

 

Additional Information

Solving natatorium air dispersion and condensation challenges

PHOTOS: Fabric duct systems in sports and entertainment applications

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