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Blog

October 2026 Newsletter Recap: The Connector Systems That Started A Legacy

October 2026 Newsletter Recap: The Connector Systems That Started A Legacy
Posted on
October 29, 2026
by
Ductmate Industries

The Connector Systems That Started A Legacy

Every legacy has a beginning, and Ductmate’s began with an innovative approach to rectangular duct connection that revolutionized the industry.

Since 1978, the DM ‘25’/‘35’/‘45’ self-sealing rectangular flange connection systems have delivered the proven performance customers count on. Today, the systems continue to carry that legacy forward, one connection at a time.

From commercial HVAC installations to demanding industrial and mega projects, the DM ‘25’/‘35’/‘45’ systems provide a strong, virtually leak-free alternative to traditional, labor-intensive duct connection methods. Each system is designed to create rigid, consistent rectangular duct connections while helping fabricators and installers save time, labor and effort. With three flange profiles engineered for different duct gauges and performance requirements, there is a Ductmate system built for nearly every rectangular duct application.

  • DM ‘25’: Designed for lighter-gauge ductwork, DM ‘25’ is recommended for duct gauges from 26 through 20 gauge and is comparable in strength to a SMACNA Class F transverse joint. Its 24-gauge galvanized steel flange makes it a dependable, efficient choice for a wide range of HVAC applications.‍
  • DM ‘35’: Built for applications requiring greater strength, DM ‘35’ is recommended for duct gauges from 26 through 16 gauge and is comparable to a SMACNA Class J transverse joint. It provides the versatility needed for demanding commercial and industrial projects.‍
  • DM ‘45’: The heaviest-duty system in the family, DM ‘45’ is recommended for duct gauges from 22 through 10 gauge and is comparable to a SMACNA Class K transverse joint. It is engineered for large-scale ductwork where exceptional joint strength is essential.

Together, these systems support applications ranging from commercial HVAC systems to data centers, semiconductor and battery plants, wastewater treatment facilities, chemical plants, oil rigs, stadiums and arenas, underground transit stations and more.

Every DM ‘25’/‘35’/‘45’ connection brings together precision-engineered components designed for efficient assembly and reliable performance:

  • Roll-Formed Flanges with Integral Mastic: Ensure a tight seal against the duct wall for a superior, leak-free connection. Integrated mastic eliminates the need for separate sealant applications, saving time and labor during assembly.
  • Corner Pieces: Add rigidity to the flange, hold the ductwork securely together and provide a sealing surface for the gasket. DM ‘25’ and ‘35’ also feature a downset corner for proper sealing and patented corner clips that simplify installation.
  • Gasket: Creates a continuous seal between the mating flanges to help prevent leakage and maintain airflow through the duct system.
  • Cleat: Maintain even gasket compression along the flange, creating a secure and consistent connection across the joint around the perimeter according to the project’s pressure and spacing requirements. Snap-on, bolt-on, or Versa-Cleat options are available depending on which DM system you are using.

Material availability varies by profile, with DM ‘35’ and ‘45’ offering additional specialty alloys for a wide range of applications.


FEATURED PRODUCTS

‍Rapidmate Slide-On Flange Corners

The Rapidmate Corner lineup is the most advanced design, labor-saving corner system in the industry, with features that save time and money in both the shop and the field.  This corner and fastener system provides an alternative method of efficiently assembling, aligning, connecting, and securing commercial rectangular duct systems.

In addition to their more common TDC/TDF profiles, Rapidmate Corners are also available for the DM35 and WDCI J slide-on flange systems. The DM35 Rapidmate 3A corner features a downset design to ensure a superior seal at the duct and corner, and an embossed pillow design for enhanced corner strength and fit. The DM35 12-gauge heavy corners and WDCI J 11-gauge corners have been designed for added strength.

DM 440 Gasket Tape & Corner Patches

DM 440™ Butyl Gasket Tape is the preferred gasket for the Ductmate ‘25’/’35’/’45’® flange connector systems. This tape has the widest range of application temperatures of any material on the market, ensuring a positive seal and ease of application under extreme conditions and is also suitable for use with other rectangular flange systems that require a gasket.  It is LEED-compliant, USDA-acceptable, and meets FDA requirements, and is formulated with an EPA-registered biocide package that prevents the growth of mold, mildew, and fungus.

For the ‘25’ and ‘35’ systems, we suggest using a 5/8” wide 440 gasket, while a 1” wide gasket is recommended for the ‘45’ system. Use our optional 3” x 2” DM 440™ corner patches to help eliminate inconsistent or recurring gasketing problems at the corners’ three critical sealing points of four-bolt connections. These optional corner patches can be used on “ALL” eight corners in conjunction with a continuous piece in lieu of a standard gasketing method.


INDUSTRY NEWS & MORE

Ductmate Value-Added Services

Ductmate offers a variety of value-added services and resources, including a rectangular duct construction standards guide, specialized product assistance and support, engineering assistance and product specification review, custom cut-to-length services, hands-on training, and online resources. We encourage you to take advantage of these value-added services and resources available to you to make your next job as simple as possible!  

Want to learn more? Click here to read the full article.

Gasketing 101: A Guide to Sealing Ductmate Rectangular Flange Connector Systems

Without proper gasketing, improperly sealed ductwork can leak up to 30% of air, resulting in waste and forcing the system to work harder. Over time, this can lead to system failure and costly repairs. Prioritizing proper gasket application is not only best practice but also crucial for maximizing energy efficiency, extending system lifespan, and meeting building codes and standards.

Looking to learn gasketing best practices? Click here to read the full article.

Removable & Breakaway Fastener Connections Available for Rectangular Flange Systems

Ductmate offers removable and breakaway connections for rectangular flange connection systems.

Interested? Click here to learn more.


Ready to Buy?

Ductmate products are available at over 350 locations across the US as part of a selective distribution network.  Use the Ductmate distributor locator map to find a distributor near you.

Outside the US? Check out our international distributor list.  For detailed information on product availability, lead times, or other international sales requests, please email ductmate@ductmate.com.

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