S-and-Drive Square Duct · Plenum connection

Connect square duct to plenum

Small plenum box

Task typePlenum connection
Tools / equipmentPlenum support, S-lock, drives, sealant

Before you start

  • Confirm the duct size, end construction, pressure class, seal class, and joint shown on the approved shop drawing.
  • Inspect both duct ends for crushed corners, torn locks, bowed panels, loose reinforcement, or shop damage before lifting them into place.
  • Make sure the supports are already installed or the sections are otherwise held so the joint is not carrying the weight of the run.
  • Stage the correct S-cleats, drive cleats, sealant, hand tools, clamps, and access equipment before starting the joint.

Lay it out

  1. Verify the plenum dimensions, inlet orientation, access panel, damper, filter, and service-clearance requirements.
  2. Confirm the connection opening is reinforced and intended for S-and-drive construction.
  3. Plan supports so the plenum casing carries no branch or main-duct weight.

Set and support it

  1. Hang or set the plenum level and square before connecting duct.
  2. Support the incoming duct close to the plenum connection.
  3. Align the duct opening to the plenum without prying or bowing the casing panel.

Make the connection

  1. 1

    Fit the top and bottom S-cleats to the mating edges.

  2. 2

    Bring the duct to the plenum and align all four corners.

  3. 3

    Start both side drives and seat them evenly while watching the plenum panel.

  4. 4

    Finish the drive ends and seal corners, seams, and any required perimeter.

  5. 5

    Check that internal dampers, pattern controllers, or filters remain clear.

  6. 6

    Verify service panels can still open.

Check the install

  • The plenum remains square and level.
  • The connection panel is not bowed or pulled out of the casing.
  • The duct is independently supported.
  • Access doors and internal components operate normally.
  • The connection is sealed with no open corner.

Common mistakes

  • Using a weak plenum panel as the final duct support.
  • Pulling an offset duct into place with the drive cleats.
  • Blocking filter or damper access with the branch.
  • Applying sealant before the panel is mechanically seated.

Stop and ask

Stop if the plenum opening is unreinforced, the casing deforms during alignment, access is blocked, or the connection type differs from the approved detail.