What material and thickness should access panels be made of for ducts?

Access panels for ducts in commercial cooking operations should be made of the same material and thickness as the duct itself. This alignment in material and thickness ensures that the access panels maintain the same structural integrity and fire resistance as the ducts. Using the same material prevents issues such as compatibility with fire ratings and ensures that the access point does not become a weak spot in the ventilation system.

By having access panels made from identical materials, it also facilitates better sealing against air leakage, which is crucial in maintaining the efficiency of the ventilation system and reducing the risk of fire by containing grease and flammable residues that can accumulate. This is particularly important in commercial kitchens where cooking operations generate a significant amount of smoke, grease, and heat.

While other options suggest various combinations of materials and thicknesses, they do not offer the same level of performance and safety that the standard outlines, which is why using the same material and thickness is critical.