What is the primary purpose of a smoke damper in HVAC systems?

What is the primary purpose of a smoke damper in HVAC systems?

• A. To cool air before it enters the living space
• B. To control the environment in the duct system
• C. To contain smoke and prevent it from spreading
• D. To enhance the sound quality of ventilation

Answer: (C)

The primary purpose of a smoke damper in HVAC systems is to contain smoke and prevent it from spreading. Smoke dampers are critical components in smoke control systems and are designed to close upon detecting smoke, maintaining the integrity of smoke barriers within a building. This containment is vital during a fire event, as it helps protect evacuation routes, minimize smoke damage, and increase the overall safety of occupants by limiting smoke migration to other areas of the building. In contrast, cooling air or enhancing sound quality are not functions of a smoke damper. While controlling the environment within the duct system might seem relevant, it is more related to airflow regulation rather than the specific purpose of smoke containment. Smoke dampers are integrated into the fire protection strategy of a building, aligning closely with safety standards outlined by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

The primary purpose of a smoke damper in HVAC systems is to contain smoke and prevent it from spreading. Smoke dampers are critical components in smoke control systems and are designed to close upon detecting smoke, maintaining the integrity of smoke barriers within a building. This containment is vital during a fire event, as it helps protect evacuation routes, minimize smoke damage, and increase the overall safety of occupants by limiting smoke migration to other areas of the building.

In contrast, cooling air or enhancing sound quality are not functions of a smoke damper. While controlling the environment within the duct system might seem relevant, it is more related to airflow regulation rather than the specific purpose of smoke containment. Smoke dampers are integrated into the fire protection strategy of a building, aligning closely with safety standards outlined by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).