What is a Smoke Damper in an HVAC system?

A smoke damper is a device that helps to improve the ventilation of a space during a fire. By regulating the flow of air, it can help to prevent the spread of smoke and ensure that people can safely evacuate the building.

Smoke dampers are an important part of any HVAC system in a commercial or public building. They are required by code in many jurisdictions and should be properly installed and maintained to ensure they will work as intended in the event of a fire.

How do smoke dampers work?

Smoke dampers are usually activated by heat detectors or sprinklers. When they sense an increase in temperature or water flow, they will open to allow more air to flow into the space. This increases the amount of fresh air available and helps to reduce the concentration of smoke and toxins.

What is the objective of a smoke damper?

The objective of a smoke damper is to help confine fire and smoke within a designated area by providing ventilation. It does this by controlling the movement of air through the HVAC system.

This helps to prevent the spread of smoke and toxins throughout the building, giving people more time to safely evacuate.

What are the three types of fire dampers?

There are 3 types of fire dampers:

  1. Gravity dampers are the most common type and are usually installed in ceilings. They open when heat is detected, allowing hot air and smoke to rise up and out of the building.
  2. Horizontal dampers are installed on walls and open from the side. They are typically used in larger buildings where gravity dampers would not be sufficient.
  3. Vertical dampers are installed in ductwork and open from the top or bottom. They are used to provide ventilation for tall buildings or spaces with high ceilings.

Smoke dampers play an important role in keeping people safe during a fire. They should be properly installed and maintained to ensure they will work as intended.

Fire smoke damper installation

Dampers should be inspected regularly to make sure they are functioning properly. If a damper is not working correctly, it should be repaired or replaced as soon as possible.

Smoke dampers are an important part of any HVAC system in a commercial or public building. Fire smoke damper installation and maintenance are critical to ensure the safety of occupants in the event of a fire.

Combination fire/smoke damper

A combination fire/smoke damper is a device that functions as both a fire damper and a smoke damper. It is usually installed in ductwork and is activated by heat or smoke detectors.

When the detector senses an increase in temperature or the presence of smoke, the damper will open to allow air to flow through. This helps to ventilate the space and prevent the spread of fire and smoke.

Combination fire/smoke dampers are required by code in many jurisdictions and should be properly installed and maintained to ensure they will work as intended.

Related Links

Smoke dampers

Smoke Dampers

Rectangular Smoke Dampers

Related Videos