TinnerFlow
S-and-Drive Square Duct · Dismantling

Take apart duct safely

Remove S-and-drive section

Task typeDismantling
Tools / equipmentLift/support, hammer, pliers

Before you start

  • Confirm the duct section is isolated, clean enough to handle, and free of hazardous dust or process residue.
  • Support both sides of every joint before removing cleats.
  • Plan where the removed section will be lowered and stored.

Lay it out

  1. Identify which piece must come out and the safest sequence of joint removal.
  2. Check whether access doors, dampers, wiring, insulation, or other trades are attached.

Set and support it

  1. Install temporary supports or rigging on the section being removed.
  2. Prevent adjacent runs from shifting when the joint is opened.
  3. Establish a controlled exclusion area below.

Make the connection

  1. 1

    Remove or unfold the secured drive ends.

  2. 2

    Back the side drives out carefully.

  3. 3

    Separate the side locks while maintaining support.

  4. 4

    Disengage the top and bottom S-cleats.

  5. 5

    Lower the section under control.

  6. 6

    Cap open duct ends and protect reusable lock edges.

Check the install

  • No section was unsupported during removal.
  • Adjacent duct remains aligned and supported.
  • Reusable ends are not torn or crushed.
  • Open systems are capped and the area is clean.

Common mistakes

  • Pulling drives before rigging the loose piece.
  • Dropping cleats or metal scraps from overhead.
  • Twisting the section until the hems tear.
  • Leaving open duct exposed to debris.

Stop and ask

Stop if the system may contain hazardous material, the section weight/rigging is uncertain, adjacent duct begins to move, or safe access cannot be established.