Effective smoke control of escape and rescue routes
A differential pressure system (PDS ) , also known as a smoke control pressure system , plays a crucial role in keeping stairwells smoke-free. Especially in buildings with high occupancy, it ensures that escape and rescue routes remain usable for self-rescue and firefighting operations for extended periods.
Smoke-free escape routes are a basic requirement for:
Depending on the type of building and its use, different protection goals can be defined:
Whether "low smoke" or "smoke-free" depends on the requirements of the respective fire protection concept :
Both systems ensure that stairwells function as life-saving escape and rescue routes .
| Protection goal | "Low smoke": Flushing system with pressure maintenance | "Smoke-free": The smoke control pressure system |
|---|---|---|
|
Explanation | A low-smoke environment is achieved through a purging system with regulated pressure maintenance . | A smoke control pressure system is used to ensure a completely smoke-free environment . |
| How it works | A pressure regulating element is installed in combination with a skylight at the top of the stairwell.
If a smoke detector detects smoke in a unit, the skylight opens and the fan starts. A minimum pressure of 15 Pa (with doors closed) is generated. The door opening force remains below 100 N. |
A controlled airflow ensures a flow rate of 2 m/s through the door cross-section . The door opening force also remains below 100 N. |
Advantages & Limitations |
Smoke that enters the stairwell is diluted and flushed out . The protection goal of "low smoke" is only effective if the stairwell doors are rarely opened. |
The stairwell will remain smoke-free . Self -rescue will be ensured.
A smoke-free firefighting attack is possible. |
Two systems are available for regulating overpressure (or pressure ratios) :
The passive / mechanical control (TROX X-FANS) and the active / electrical control
(DR. ERMER GmbH) .
In passive ventilation systems, a fan delivers a constant airflow into the stairwell. Excess pressure is released through mechanical dampers, usually located on the roof. Adjusting springs and weights on the dampers regulates the required pressure conditions.
In contrast , actively controlled differential pressure systems work with a sensor that detects the changing pressure conditions in the stairwell and, analogously, uses a frequency converter to control fans that then deliver exactly the required air volume via their rotational speed.
►► Dr. Ermer | We would be happy to advise you!. Learn more here! (German only) ►
Differential pressure systems, often also called pressure ventilation systems (PVS), can keep the stairwell smoke-free in case of fire, thus enabling residents to escape safely and evacuate reliably.
Differential pressure systems generally consist of three basic components:
TROX X-FANS had these basic components such as supply air fan, exhaust air fan, control technology, opening system, differential pressure sensors and frequency converters for the control of the fans tested in accordance with DIN EN 12101-6: 2022-11 (specification of differential pressure systems and kits) in cooperation with the Materials Testing Institute (MPA) Braunschweig and passed this test.
Likewise, tested kits according to Annex A, the hot gas control damper according to Annex B and the operation of smoke and heat exhaust devices with variable speed frequency converters at elevated temperatures according to Annex C were tested – this test was also passed.
The smoke control pressure system in the stairwell of the Trox SE administration building in Neukirchen-Vluyn has the task of enabling people to escape through a smoke-free stairwell for a sufficiently long period of time and facilitating rescue and firefighting operations for the fire brigade.
The positive pressure in the stairwell also ensures that any leakage areas (e.g., gaps around a door) are cleared, preventing smoke from entering the stairwell from the fire floor. It is essential to ensure a continuous and sufficiently large exhaust airflow from the fire area. For the system to function reliably, an airflow of 2 m/s through the door opening must be maintained.
Practical training at the TROX ACADEMY
In addition to increased safety, the new smoke control pressure system at TROX will allow our seminar visitors to experience the functionality and necessary components of a smoke control pressure system in a practical way.
In the event of a fire, an X-FANS fan provides the necessary supply air to create positive pressure in the stairwell.
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Our department for Service-Requests will contact you asap.
For general question regarding products or services you can also call:
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