What is the minimum clearance from a grease duct system to combustible material?

The minimum clearance from a grease duct system to combustible material is 18 inches. This specification is crucial for ensuring safety and compliance with fire codes. Grease ducts can become quite hot during cooking operations, and if they are too close to combustible materials such as wood, insulation, or other flammable substances, there is a significant risk of ignition and fire.

By maintaining an 18-inch clearance, the heat produced by the grease duct is adequately dissipated, which helps to prevent potential fires. This requirement is based on safety standards established by building codes and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), which take into account both the temperature that could be reached by grease ducts and the flammability of adjacent materials.

Following this clearance guideline is essential for anyone involved in installation and maintenance of kitchen exhaust systems, as it ensures that installations are not only compliant with regulations but also contribute to overall fire safety in commercial kitchens.