What is the correct term for a fire/smoke damper that closes automatically when heat is detected?

What is the correct term for a fire/smoke damper that closes automatically when heat is detected?

• A. Manual fire damper
• B. Automatic fire damper
• C. Smoke vent damper
• D. Emergency shut-off damper

Answer: (B)

The correct term for a fire/smoke damper that closes automatically when heat is detected is an automatic fire damper. This type of damper is designed to respond to fire conditions by closing on its own, effectively preventing the spread of smoke and flames through the ductwork. Automatic fire dampers are equipped with sensors that detect a rise in temperature, signaling the damper to close, thus providing a critical function in fire prevention and control within HVAC systems. In contrast, a manual fire damper requires human intervention to operate; it must be opened or closed by an individual rather than responding autonomously. Smoke vent dampers serve a different purpose altogether, focusing on venting smoke to the outside in the event of a fire, not necessarily preventing smoke spread in the same manner. Lastly, an emergency shut-off damper is typically used to cut off airflow in response to alarms or signal from a fire detection system, but it is not specifically designed to close due to heat detection alone. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in the design, installation, and maintenance of HVAC systems, as it ensures compliance with safety regulations and enhances fire protection strategies.

The correct term for a fire/smoke damper that closes automatically when heat is detected is an automatic fire damper. This type of damper is designed to respond to fire conditions by closing on its own, effectively preventing the spread of smoke and flames through the ductwork. Automatic fire dampers are equipped with sensors that detect a rise in temperature, signaling the damper to close, thus providing a critical function in fire prevention and control within HVAC systems.

In contrast, a manual fire damper requires human intervention to operate; it must be opened or closed by an individual rather than responding autonomously. Smoke vent dampers serve a different purpose altogether, focusing on venting smoke to the outside in the event of a fire, not necessarily preventing smoke spread in the same manner. Lastly, an emergency shut-off damper is typically used to cut off airflow in response to alarms or signal from a fire detection system, but it is not specifically designed to close due to heat detection alone.

Understanding these distinctions is crucial in the design, installation, and maintenance of HVAC systems, as it ensures compliance with safety regulations and enhances fire protection strategies.