What term describes the distance an air-stream travels from the outlet?

The term that describes the distance an air-stream travels from the outlet is "throw." In HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems, throw refers to how far conditioned air travels from a diffuser or outlet before its velocity diminishes to a certain level, typically defined by the air speed being reduced to half of its initial velocity. This concept is crucial for designing air distribution systems effectively, as it helps to ensure that spaces receive adequate airflow and proper ventilation.

Understanding throw is essential for ensuring that air is distributed evenly throughout a space, preventing areas from being too cold or too warm and ensuring comfort. The design of duct systems and the positioning of outlets are influenced by calculations of throw to achieve optimal airflow distribution, making it a key consideration in ductwork design and layout.

In contrast, velocity refers to the speed of the air moving through the duct, pressure measures the force exerted by the air within the systems, and flow rate indicates the volume of air passing through a section of the system over a specific time. While all these terms are related to airflow and HVAC principles, throw specifically focuses on the distance traveled by the air from its source.