UK vs USA methods of joining rectangular sheet metal ducts

[Stephen Tashiro]

Methods of joining rectangular sheet metal ducts used in the UK, as shown on http://www.ductstore.co.uk/acatalog/Help_on_rectangular_ducting.html seem simpler than the method using drive cleats still common in the USA. (e.g. at 1:09 in https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIBIyf0JdPM ). What keeps the drive-cleat method in business?

[mike stenson]

Methods of joining rectangular sheet metal ducts used in the UK, as shown on http://www.ductstore.co.uk/acatalog/Help_on_rectangular_ducting.html seem simpler than the method using drive cleats still common in the USA. (e.g. at 1:09 in https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIBIyf0JdPM ). What keeps the drive-cleat method in business?

I'm going to venture to guess... habit. The method of connecting electrical wiring differs greatly between the US and Europe as well (you don't see wire nuts often in Europe, mostly Wagos) There are pluses and minuses to both, but it tends to resort to that which the installers and inspectors are more used to.

[Bruce Wrenn]

What keeps the drive cleats in business, the cost of labor. Any idiot can assemble duct using "Pittsburgs" and drive cleats, plus you don't have sealant in the joints in case of future remakes, or add ons.

[Michael Weber]

I generally credit difference between how the two countries do things like this to the long history of English craft guilds and long apprenticeships. Opposed to the more American “time is money” attitude. Not saying either is better or correct. When I was doing neon as a hobby i was amazed to find out some differences in how the how the glass is formed into the final shape. The English method being much more difficult and time consuming to learn as well execute. It made for impressive substantial signage. End result otherwise made little difference in practical results. Reminds me of the “good enough vs overkill” thread

[Stan Coryell]

Google "ductmate". Industry has been using that and TDF connections for 40? Years. Before that, it was government lock. Talk about time consuming!

On small duct we still use slip and drive because it's faster and it takes up less room. TDF measures 1 7/8" each side, it wouldn't fit in a wall cavity or joist bay.

Note: according to SMACNA standards ALL transverse seems must be sealed. Longitudinal seems get sealed after 3" w.c., I think (we seal all longs). I would rather pry apart TDF than beat off a drive that is caulked .

Stan