Face velocity
Face velocity is the measured air speed at an inlet or outlet of a heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system.
For example, a fume hood is a ventilated enclosure that is used to safely handle harmful or toxic fumes or vapours. Airflow into a hood is achieved by an exhaust blower which ‘pulls’ air into and through the hood and exhaust system. The resulting ‘pull’ at the opening of the hood is measured as face velocity.
Face velocity is measured in m/s and can be calculated as the volume flow rate (m³/s) divided by the face area (m²).
Airflow velocity meters can be used to measure face veloity.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
CIOB celebrates positive Ofsted report.
The Building Safety Regulator announces a call for evidence.
Government approach could undermine delivery and regeneration.
World's first mass timber data centre.
The overlooked environmental aspect of data centre development.
Introduction to radon awareness
New technical information sheet published by CIOB.
Updated supplier guide can help electrical contractors engage with NHP.
CIAT confirm the winners of the 2026 architectural technology awards.
Government launches a one stop shop for flood preparedness.
Sir Edwin Lutyens: Britain's greatest architect? Book review.
CIOB publishes free template to help assess and manage risks.
ECA's reflections on Party Conference season
Burnham wants to be confident of winning before asking for a fresh mandate.
New Chief Construction and Scientific Adviser
Sergio Cavalaro, Professor of Infrastructure Systems at Loughborough University.