Fire Dampers
A fire damper is a passive fire protection device installed in the ductwork of HVAC systems. Its essential function is to maintain the fire resistance rating of walls, floors, and ceilings where the duct penetrates the building's fire separation boundaries. These devices are typically held open by a fusible link. Upon reaching a pre-determined elevated temperature, the link melts, triggering a spring or motorized mechanism to rapidly close the damper blades. This action creates a robust physical barrier within the duct, effectively preventing the spread of fire and minimizing heat transfer into adjacent zones. Fire dampers are required for maintaining building safety and are essential for adherence to fire and building codes in commercial, institutional, and high-rise structures. Proper selection and installation are crucial to ensure compartmentalization, protecting occupants, and minimizing catastrophic property damage during a fire event.