Chapter 5.2.5.3 - Application, Selection, and Installation

The most common suspended ceiling T-bar grid application (shown in Fig. 2.13) is
commercial office perimeter heating, combination perimeter heating with variable air
volume systems, primary heating, and problem solving. Mounting and frame kit
designs extend use to other ceiling constructions like gypsum sheetrock and concrete
for the full range of building types and uses. Revealed-edge models and silk screening
enable a reasonable panel match to most ceiling tiles. However, the flat panel surface
is a limiting factor in matching to three-dimensional tiles (Fig. 2.14).

Installation is facilitated by a standard 3-ft± conduit panel lead for connection to
a plenum-mounted electrical box, the typical procedure for commercial buildings

(Fig. 2.15).Wiring is unique to each voltage. Installers should consult manufacturers’
wiring instructions (Fig. 2.16). Installation must conform to electrical and building
codes in terms of clearance from other surfaces, fixtures, and materials as well as
electric circuit design and amperage load. Space use and other factors may also
impact product selection, installation, and design requirements.

Encapsulated metal panel designs serve high-humidity locations and some classes
of hazardous locations.The wattage output range is approximately 65 to 125 W/ft² of
ceiling panel area.The range of watt density and design application provides opportunities
for consideration of encapsulated metal heat panels for a variety of ceiling
and wall locations 6 ft or more above the floor (Fig. 2.17). Encapsulated electric
metal radiant ceiling panels may address both spot and general heating needs.