Access panels must be of which material that aligns with the duct specifications?

Access panels in ventilation systems must be constructed from the same material as the duct to ensure compatibility and maintain the integrity of the ventilation system. This is important because using dissimilar materials could create potential weaknesses or failure points in the system, particularly when subjected to high temperatures or exposure to grease and other contaminants common in commercial cooking environments.

Matching the material ensures that the access panels can withstand the same conditions as the ducts, including fire resistance and structural durability. This alignment contributes to the overall effectiveness of the ventilation system and helps in meeting safety standards outlined by the NFPA 96, which emphasizes the importance of maintaining effective ventilation while minimizing fire risks.

Using non-combustible materials or metal is not sufficient unless they are the same as the duct material because differences could compromise fire protection features. Reinforced plastic may lack the required fire resistance and durability compared to metal or other suitable materials. Therefore, maintaining uniformity in materials helps ensure optimum safety and performance in commercial cooking operations.