Fire dampers are an integral part of modern ventilation systems. The installation of such fire protection systems allows timely localization of ignition sites and quickly eliminates fire hazard situations.
What are fire dampers?
Such systems are autonomous installations that are built into ventilation ducts and prevent the spread of fire, smoke, and combustion products. Installation of fire dampers is a prerequisite for protecting people, preserving property in the presence of numerous adjacent rooms.
Fields of application
According to fire safety requirements , valves must be present in ventilation and heating structures, as well as in air conditioning systems. They are currently installing them in industrial, civil, and residential premises. Fire dampers are part of the smoke ventilation system, which contributes to the evacuation of people in the event of a risk of space pollution with carbon monoxide.
Classification
Currently, the following types of fire valves are distinguished:
- Smoke exhausts - open when ignited and prevent the spread of carbon monoxide between rooms.
- Open - create an inextricable barrier to ignition.
- Closed - prevent the spread of fire when extinguishing a fire with powder , gas or aerosol means.
- Double action - open during normal ventilation. Closes during a fire. After extinguishing a fire, they remove smoke and gases from the premises.
Fire Valve Control
Any fire retardant system, regardless of type and design, can be adjusted manually or automatically. In the first case, the valves are activated due to the appropriate actions of those responsible for fire protection. Automatic control involves triggering upon receipt of signals from security systems. More popular and reliable is the latest option.
Features of choice
Fire dampers are able to ensure the safety of any room, creating the conditions for the rapid evacuation of residents or staff. Looking at the huge variety of options available, the need to select the most effective solution can cause a lot of questions.
It is recommended to select fire dampers depending on the nature of the ventilation system and existing standards that apply to the operation of the equipment. The main selection criteria are the achievement of high functionality and reliability.
Preference should be given to valves made of materials resistant to high temperatures. Products from heat-resistant high alloy steel can become the best option. At the same time, the installation of the fire damper must be carried out in accordance with state standards and requirements. In addition, specific features of the operation of individual rooms should be taken into account.
Valve operation in case of fire hazard situations
The operation of individual mechanisms in the event of fire has the following differences:
- Systems with a manual drive - initially, the damper is in the "open" position. With increasing ambient temperature to a limit of 70 ° C, a fusible solder is deformed, which acts as a connecting link for the parts of the mechanism. A shutter is released that instantly closes the passage opening under the action of the spring.
- Fire-retardant devices - when voltage is applied to the electric actuator, the damper switches to the “open” position. The reverse spring is cocked. De-energizing the drive closes the shutter. Activation occurs with the help of a signal from automatic fire systems when dangerous temperatures are reached.
- Smoke exhaust valves - in working condition, the damper is in the “closed” position. The supply of electrical voltage to the drive from automatic devices causes the flap to open, which helps to remove smoke and gases from the room. Disconnecting the power returns the valve to its original state using a spring rod.
- Systems with an electromagnet - the initially open damper is retracted after receiving a control signal from an automatic fire extinguishing system. The operation occurs due to the activation of the electromagnet when dangerous temperatures are reached. The design of the valves suggests the possibility of both automatic and manual closing of the valve.
Service
A regular check of the technical condition of the fire damper involves the performance of work in several successive stages. First of all, a visual inspection is performed. Exterior surfaces are examined, the degree of reliability of the fasteners, the efficiency of the moving elements are determined.
The next step is the operational verification of the systems. To do this, in manual or automatic mode, the shutters are closed and opened, which should freely enter the working state, and then return to the starting position. Data on the state of these elements are transmitted to the control panel.
In the end, existing breakdowns and defects are eliminated. Troubleshooting during warranty service or during installation requires notification by the manufacturer.