Which feature of a smoke damper prevents the spread of smoke through HVAC systems?

Which feature of a smoke damper prevents the spread of smoke through HVAC systems?

• A. Thermostatic control
• B. Gravity closing mechanism
• C. Sealing gaskets
• D. Variable speed fans

Answer: (C)

Sealing gaskets are crucial components of a smoke damper that help to prevent the spread of smoke through HVAC systems. When a smoke damper is closed, the sealing gaskets create a tight barrier around the edges of the damper. This seal is essential for ensuring that smoke does not escape through any gaps, thereby containing the smoke within specific areas of a building and helping to maintain safety during a fire incident. Sealing gaskets are typically made from materials that can withstand high temperatures and are designed to expand upon exposure to heat, improving their sealing capability when smoke is present. The performance of these gaskets is critical in meeting the standards set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and ensuring that smoke dampers function effectively during a fire situation. Other options, while related to HVAC systems, do not serve the primary function of containing smoke. Thermostatic control is associated with temperature regulation rather than smoke containment. A gravity closing mechanism helps ensure that the damper closes but does not create a barrier against smoke. Variable speed fans manage air circulation but do not directly address the leakage of smoke when a damper is intended to suppress it.

Sealing gaskets are crucial components of a smoke damper that help to prevent the spread of smoke through HVAC systems. When a smoke damper is closed, the sealing gaskets create a tight barrier around the edges of the damper. This seal is essential for ensuring that smoke does not escape through any gaps, thereby containing the smoke within specific areas of a building and helping to maintain safety during a fire incident.

Sealing gaskets are typically made from materials that can withstand high temperatures and are designed to expand upon exposure to heat, improving their sealing capability when smoke is present. The performance of these gaskets is critical in meeting the standards set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and ensuring that smoke dampers function effectively during a fire situation.

Other options, while related to HVAC systems, do not serve the primary function of containing smoke. Thermostatic control is associated with temperature regulation rather than smoke containment. A gravity closing mechanism helps ensure that the damper closes but does not create a barrier against smoke. Variable speed fans manage air circulation but do not directly address the leakage of smoke when a damper is intended to suppress it.