Terminal
Illustrated Guide to Mechanical Cooling (BG 1/2010), written by Kevin Pennycook and published by BSRIA in 2010, defines a terminal as: ‘The end point of a system run. An air terminal device is the end point of a ductwork system, such as a grille or diffuser.’
It defines a terminal unit or terminal device as: ‘A unit at the system outlet which usually provides local control, such as a VAV terminal unit. Its primary role is to supply and direct air via diffuser(s) into the occupied zone at the desired temperature and location.’
--BSRIA
NB the word 'terminal' might also refer to the end of a transport route, such as a train station. For example:
- Heathrow Terminal 5
- Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport Terminal 3
- Salerno Maritime Terminal
- Douglas Sea Terminal Building
See also: Termination in construction contracts.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
The heritage of nuclear and conventional power stations.
New measures to stop people being ripped off
Government to protect families from cowboy builders and aggressive bailiffs.
New Futurebuild showcase brings an innovation-first approach.
National Planning Policy Framework
Understanding the 2026 changes.
ECA's public affairs priorities
Member consultation opens to shape priorities for 2027 to 2030.
Dutyholder responsibilities from 1 July 2026.
Where performance meets practice
The Building Envelope Stage at UKCW Birmingham.
CIAT publishes briefing on planning reforms.
Leaders in Learning for Practice Network
Call for conservation leaders in learning to register interest in new network.
The importance of early engagement
Construction lessons from the Trillium HealthWorks Experience Centre.
Mayors are to be given planning call in powers
Mayors across England will be able to make the most important planning decisions.
The Master Builder: William Butterfield and his times. Book review.