Prihoda ajakiri
New installation at Will Rogers Memorial Center Arena, Texas
Renovating the HVAC system of a historic arena required a solution that could provide high airflow without placing excessive weight on the existing roof structure. At the Will Rogers Memorial Center Arena in Fort Worth, Prihoda fabric ducting made it possible to combine modern air distribution with respect for the building’s original architecture.
The Will Rogers Memorial Center Arena is part of a historic complex in Fort Worth, Texas. Opened in 1936, the arena is used primarily for equestrian competitions, livestock events and other large public gatherings. Its strong architectural character was an important consideration during the HVAC renovation. Only limited structural and visual changes could be made, while the new system still needed to distribute a large volume of air throughout the indoor space. The solution therefore had to meet current technical requirements without disturbing the appearance of the arena or placing unnecessary demands on the original structure.
When the weight of conventional ductwork becomes a challenge
The original HVAC design considered metal ductwork and conventional diffusers. However, the total weight of the proposed system raised concerns about the load it would place on the existing roof structure. Prihoda fabric diffusers provided a significantly lighter alternative. Their low weight reduced the structural demands of the installation while still allowing the required airflow of 155,000 m³/h to be delivered to the arena. This was particularly important in a building where extensive structural modifications were not an option.
Designed around the roof structure
The installation also had to fit into the limited space available between the roof trusses. The oval shape of the arena dome added another layer of complexity, as the duct routes needed to follow the curvature of the building. The fabric ducting system was therefore designed specifically for the available space. A total of 462 metres of ducting was installed along the curved roof structure, allowing it to blend naturally into the interior. The dark grey colour was selected to keep the system visually unobtrusive and in harmony with the existing architecture.
Air distribution for the arena floor and spectator areas
The system needed to serve two different zones: the large central arena floor and the surrounding spectator seating. Careful coordination of the duct routes and air distribution design helped ensure that air could be supplied effectively throughout both areas. Despite the restricted installation space, the system provides the required performance across the large indoor venue. The result is a lightweight and purpose-designed air distribution system that supports the operation of the arena without taking attention away from its historic interior.
Pressure: 250 Pa
Diameter: C1200
Length: 462 m
Material: PMS
Color: Dark Grey – DG




