The cabins and technical areas of ships need to be properly ventilated, but kitchens and toilet areas on board also need to be properly ventilated. Moisture, gases or other harmful substances can occur in these areas. Ventilation tubes and ducts are important to get the fresh air into the right rooms.

Ducts are conduits or passages used in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) to deliver and remove air. The needed airflows include, for example, supply air, return air, and exhaust air. Ducts commonly also deliver ventilation air as part of the supply air.

The ducts must also meet strict fire safety requirements, ensure quiet operation, and dampen noise and vibration.