Understanding Fire and Smoke Damper Application Requirements (OR-16-C066)

Some HVAC engineers and designers are uncertain of the requirements for fire dampers and smoke dampers, especially with regard to the difference between partition types, because those requirements are typically found in the model building codes rather than the model mechanical codes. Some play it safe and specify fire and smoke dampers where they really are not necessary. This conference paper presents a fire and smoke damper summary for HVAC engineers and designers based on the model building codes. Topics addressed include the differences between fire walls, fire barriers, shaft enclosures, and fire partitions and between a smoke barrier and smoke partition, so that one can properly apply (or not apply) fire and smoke dampers where they are required and only where required. Eight helpful design tips are included. This paper is intended as a good introduction to the topic for less experienced engineers or designers; and a good review for the more experienced.