Air capture hood
Commissioning Air Systems (BG 49/2015), written by Chris Parsloe and published by BSRIA in March 2015, explains how to commission ducted air distribution systems in buildings. It was originally published in 2013 and was then updated in 2015.
It states in relation to an air capture hood (thermal): “This instrument measures air flow by means of exposed thermal elements housed inside a moulded rectangular section body over which the air passes. The instrument has a measurement range of 2 to 65 l/s with a typical accuracy of ±5% of the indicated value.’
It defines an air capture hood (Balometer) as: ‘….lightweight collapsible assemblies used for the measurement of flow rates at supply and extract diffusers. An air flow hood captures the air from the diffuser and directs it past an integral array of pressure sensing points which (working on pitot tube principles) provide a direct measurement of flow rate. They give a direct reading, usually in l/s. The typical range is between 25 and 950 l/s. Typical instrument accuracies are in the range ± 3% of the indicated value.’
See also: Balometer.
--BSRIA
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
A case study and a warning to would-be developers
Creating four dwellings... after half a century of doing this job, why, oh why, is it so difficult?
Reform of the fire engineering profession
Fire Engineers Advisory Panel: Authoritative Statement, reactions and next steps.
Restoration and renewal of the Palace of Westminster
A complex project of cultural significance from full decant to EMI, opportunities and a potential a way forward.
Apprenticeships and the responsibility we share
Perspectives from the CIOB President as National Apprentice Week comes to a close.
The first line of defence against rain, wind and snow.
Building Safety recap January, 2026
What we missed at the end of last year, and at the start of this...
National Apprenticeship Week 2026, 9-15 Feb
Shining a light on the positive impacts for businesses, their apprentices and the wider economy alike.
Applications and benefits of acoustic flooring
From commercial to retail.
From solid to sprung and ribbed to raised.
Strengthening industry collaboration in Hong Kong
Hong Kong Institute of Construction and The Chartered Institute of Building sign Memorandum of Understanding.
A detailed description from the experts at Cornish Lime.
IHBC planning for growth with corporate plan development
Grow with the Institute by volunteering and CP25 consultation.
Connecting ambition and action for designers and specifiers.
Electrical skills gap deepens as apprenticeship starts fall despite surging demand says ECA.
Built environment bodies deepen joint action on EDI
B.E.Inclusive initiative agree next phase of joint equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) action plan.
Recognising culture as key to sustainable economic growth
Creative UK Provocation paper: Culture as Growth Infrastructure.





















