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

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

• A. To control temperature
• B. To prevent smoke transmission
• C. To balance airflow
• D. To filter particulates

Answer: (B)

The primary purpose of a fire damper in HVAC systems is to prevent smoke transmission. Fire dampers are critical components designed to automatically close in the event of a fire, effectively blocking the passage of smoke through ductwork and preventing it from spreading to other areas of a building. In addition to inhibiting the movement of smoke, they also serve to contain fire within a specified area, enabling better management of fire and smoke control efforts during an emergency. Controlling temperature, balancing airflow, and filtering particulates are not the main functions of fire dampers. While temperature control and airflow balance are important aspects of HVAC systems, they are achieved through different components such as thermostats, fans, and air handling units. Similarly, filtering particulates is handled by air filters within the HVAC system, which focus on improving air quality, rather than fire and smoke containment. Thus, the role of a fire damper is distinctly focused on enhancing safety in case of fire by restricting smoke movement.

The primary purpose of a fire damper in HVAC systems is to prevent smoke transmission. Fire dampers are critical components designed to automatically close in the event of a fire, effectively blocking the passage of smoke through ductwork and preventing it from spreading to other areas of a building. In addition to inhibiting the movement of smoke, they also serve to contain fire within a specified area, enabling better management of fire and smoke control efforts during an emergency.

Controlling temperature, balancing airflow, and filtering particulates are not the main functions of fire dampers. While temperature control and airflow balance are important aspects of HVAC systems, they are achieved through different components such as thermostats, fans, and air handling units. Similarly, filtering particulates is handled by air filters within the HVAC system, which focus on improving air quality, rather than fire and smoke containment. Thus, the role of a fire damper is distinctly focused on enhancing safety in case of fire by restricting smoke movement.