What is the recommended thickness for carbon steel used in exhaust fan housings?

The recommended thickness for carbon steel used in exhaust fan housings according to NFPA 96 is .054 inches. This specification ensures that the material is sufficiently robust to handle the environmental conditions that exhaust fan housings are exposed to, including high temperatures, potential corrosion from cooking byproducts, and the overall need for durability in a commercial kitchen setting.

Choosing a thickness of .054 inches strikes a balance between structural integrity and manageability during installation and maintenance. Thicker materials might offer more durability but can be more challenging to work with, while thinner materials may not provide adequate protection against the harsh conditions found in commercial cooking operations. Therefore, using carbon steel of this specified thickness helps ensure that the exhaust fan housings perform effectively and meet safety standards as outlined in the NFPA 96 standard.