Which type of fire damper provides the greatest airflow restriction?

Which type of fire damper provides the greatest airflow restriction?

• A. Inline damper
• B. Fire barrier damper
• C. Gravity damper
• D. Airstream damper

Answer: (D)

The airstream damper is designed specifically to control airflow and minimize the passage of smoke and hot gases during a fire event. It features blades that can close off the ductwork effectively, ensuring that there is a significant restriction to airflow when activated. This is crucial in fire protection as it limits the movement of smoke throughout the HVAC system, thereby improving safety and containment during an emergency. In contrast, other damper types serve different functions. Inline dampers are generally used for balancing airflow in duct systems but do not necessarily provide maximum airflow restriction during a fire. Fire barrier dampers are designed to provide a fire-resistive barrier but may not be as effective in restricting airflow as an airstream damper. Gravity dampers rely on gravity to operate, which can limit their effectiveness in restricting airflow under all conditions, especially since they may remain open when not in use. Therefore, when considering the requirement for airflow restriction influenced by the operational behavior during a fire, the airstream damper stands out as the most effective choice.

The airstream damper is designed specifically to control airflow and minimize the passage of smoke and hot gases during a fire event. It features blades that can close off the ductwork effectively, ensuring that there is a significant restriction to airflow when activated. This is crucial in fire protection as it limits the movement of smoke throughout the HVAC system, thereby improving safety and containment during an emergency.

In contrast, other damper types serve different functions. Inline dampers are generally used for balancing airflow in duct systems but do not necessarily provide maximum airflow restriction during a fire. Fire barrier dampers are designed to provide a fire-resistive barrier but may not be as effective in restricting airflow as an airstream damper. Gravity dampers rely on gravity to operate, which can limit their effectiveness in restricting airflow under all conditions, especially since they may remain open when not in use. Therefore, when considering the requirement for airflow restriction influenced by the operational behavior during a fire, the airstream damper stands out as the most effective choice.