What is a Smoke Damper?

What is a Smoke Damper?

• A. A device installed in air ducts that penetrates a vertical or horizontal assemble to restrict smoke movement between compartments.
• B. A device that sounds an alarm when smoke is detected.
• C. A valve controlling water supply to sprinklers.
• D. A seal for doors to prevent smoke leakage.

Answer: (A)

Smoke dampers are devices built into HVAC ducts where ductwork penetrates fire barriers to stop smoke from moving between different parts of a building. They sit inside the duct and automatically close in response to smoke or high temperature, often via a fusible link or a signal from the fire alarm system. By sealing off these pathways, they help keep escape routes tenable and reduce smoke spread, giving occupants more time to evacuate and responders better access to scenes. They’re a specific means of controlling smoke flow through mechanical systems, different from alarms (which detect and warn), sprinkler water valves (which control water for sprinklers), or door seals (which passively restrict leaks).

Smoke dampers are devices built into HVAC ducts where ductwork penetrates fire barriers to stop smoke from moving between different parts of a building. They sit inside the duct and automatically close in response to smoke or high temperature, often via a fusible link or a signal from the fire alarm system. By sealing off these pathways, they help keep escape routes tenable and reduce smoke spread, giving occupants more time to evacuate and responders better access to scenes. They’re a specific means of controlling smoke flow through mechanical systems, different from alarms (which detect and warn), sprinkler water valves (which control water for sprinklers), or door seals (which passively restrict leaks).