Fire dampers & how they help control the spread of smoke

Fire dampers are detection devices with fire rated shutters that can slam shut when excessive heat is detected. These devices are placed inside ventilation ducks and are an accurate method to compartmentalize fires.

Fire and smoke dampers work in similar ways, while a fire damper aims to stop the spread of fire through ventilation ducks, smoke dampers aim to direct the smoke out of the building by blocking off others ducks, selectively creating a route for the smoke to escape.

These specific kinds of devices are called passive fire protection systems. The core focus of fire and smoke dampers is to prevent smoke, fire and toxic gasses from spreading in ventilation ducts through fire rated walls and floors, as well as isolating the fire to a particular area. Fire dampers and smoke dampers, or a combination fire/smoke damper provide the first defense in the fight to contain the spread of a fire.

Fire dampers work with a physical heat detection device such as a fusible link that melts when the heat in the duct increases past a certain point, this triggers a quick release spring that instantly fastens shutters in the vent. These shutters are fire rated and are able to withstand fire inside the duct and effectively compartmentalize a fire.

Smoke dampers can also be linked with an alarm signal and can instantly close when an emergency signal is detected, these dampers can be programmed in many ways, to accommodate the needs of any building and emergency protocol.

Smoke is often the most deadly aspect of any fire, and with fire rated floors the ducted ventilation remains the most vulnerable area. Fire dampers will seal off the fire and smoke dampers will maintain a direct route for smoke to escape, without enabling it to spread into other areas of the building.

All in all these devices protect buildings from property damage and allow for proper occupant evacuation in the event of a fire emergency.

SFE Services not only services but also supplies fire and or smoke dampers. Please contact one of our expertise today or click here for a free survey of your fire safety needs:

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