SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — While the Spiral Duct Manufacturers Association was holding its annual conference here, temperatures were rising outside.

It hit 100°F at Phoenix’s Sky Harbor airport during the April 26-27 conference, which seems appropriate for a group that deals with airflow and owes its existence in part to air conditioning.

SPIDA used the event at the DoubleTree resort to get an update on flat-oval duct testing now under way at Texas A&M University, as hearing about the newest products from companies such as Armacell. Organizers also brought in Barry Benator of Benatech Inc., to speak about leadership. Also on hand was Jesse Bechtold, a certified public accountant who spoke about innovation.

The sessions closed with Bob Reid of Tangible Products Co., who gave a history of ductwork and airflow during “Why is Everyone Trying to Change My Duct System?” Reid is SPIDA’s technical director.