Perfecting seam closure is critical in HVAC duct fabrication. In response, Iowa Precision offers the Whisper-Loc® Pro XVI automated seam closing machine. This piece of equipment securely closes Pittsburgh seams without additional fasteners or adhesives, achieving precise, airtight seams effortlessly.
In this post, we will discuss the features and benefits of the Iowa Precision Whisper-Loc Pro XVI and how it increases speed and accuracy in seam closing operations while reducing manual labor.
Understanding HVAC Ductwork Seams and Closings
It's important for fabricators to understand what a ductwork seam is and what type of seam they are working with, so we'll review some of the basics here. A seam is a longitudinal separation in the sheet metal that makes up the duct, meaning that it goes along the length of the duct. It is how duct segments are mechanically closed and the piece of flat sheet metal is wrapped into the final rectangular duct.
Longitudinal seams are formed in two ways. One way is with fittings, which would be fabricated on stand alone roll formers. This type of seam could be a 20- or 16-gauge Pittsburgh or it could be a 20- to 24-gauge female Snaplock for fittings, and/or straight duct if coil processing equipment isn't being used. If coil processing or a coil line is used, longitudinal seams would be used up front and transverse joints on the back half.
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Pittsburgh Lock Seam Demonstration
Iowa Precision Whisper-Loc PRO-XVI Seam Closing Machine Machine Features
The Whisper-Loc® Pro XVI is designed for high-quality seam closure with minimal noise, which is a huge benefit for shop environments that value operator comfort and noise reduction. It delivers a tight, clean seam without excessive force, helping to maintain duct integrity while improving shop conditions with several benefits.
- Quiet Operation: Industry-leading noise reduction technology creates a more comfortable working environment.
- Superior Seam Quality: Produces consistently tight and clean seams, significantly reducing air leakage and improving duct performance.
- High-Speed Performance: Closes seams quickly and consistently, increasing shop throughput and efficiency.
The Iowa Precision Whisper-Loc PRO-XVI Seam Closing Machine is equipped with push button motor controls for quick-change duct lengths and is chain driven. This machine closes Pittsburgh seams, whether transverse duct connector (TDC), transverse duct flange (TDF), or slip and drive type duct work – in a fraction of the time.
Equipped with push button motor controls for quick-change duct lengths and chain driven, the micro-processor motorized control moves the clamp and slide block, as a unit, for faster set up (one handed) and greatly reduces noise levels. Requires minimal hammer over top and bottom and is adjustable from 18″ to 72″. Features low maintenance 220 V, single phase, 3 HP, self-contained 10-gallon (38 liter) hydraulic unit and requires minimal floor space.
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MODEL |
CAPACITY |
DUCT LENGTH |
MOTOR / VOLTAGE |
DIMENSIONS / WEIGHT |
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FAH 1672-VP |
16 gauge |
3’ (914mm) 4’ (1,219mm) 5’ (1,524mm) 6’ (1,829mm) |
3 HP - 220/1/60 |
Length: 96” Width: 35” Height: 32.5” Weight: 1,500lbs |