What are the latest technologies and trends in smoke control and ventilation systems?

1 Smart sensors and controls

One of the key components of smoke control and ventilation systems is the ability to detect and respond to smoke and fire events in real time. Smart sensors and controls can enhance this capability by using data, algorithms, and artificial intelligence to monitor and adjust the system performance. For example, smart sensors can measure the temperature, humidity, pressure, air quality, and smoke density in different zones of the building and send signals to the central control unit. The control unit can then activate or deactivate the fans, dampers, doors, windows, and other devices to optimize the smoke extraction and ventilation rate. Smart controls can also communicate with other systems, such as fire alarms, sprinklers, lighting, and security, to coordinate the emergency response.

2 Natural and hybrid ventilation

Another trend in smoke control and ventilation systems is the use of natural and hybrid ventilation strategies to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions. Natural ventilation relies on the natural forces of wind and buoyancy to create air movement and exchange in the building. Hybrid ventilation combines natural and mechanical ventilation to achieve the best balance between comfort, efficiency, and safety. Natural and hybrid ventilation can also improve the smoke control performance by creating pressure differences and air paths that facilitate the removal of smoke and heat from the building. However, natural and hybrid ventilation require careful design and integration with the building envelope, structure, and layout to ensure adequate and reliable performance.

3 Computational fluid dynamics

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is a powerful tool for simulating and analyzing the behavior of fluids, such as air and smoke, in complex environments. CFD can help facilities engineers to design, test, and optimize smoke control and ventilation systems by providing detailed and accurate information on the airflow patterns, temperature distribution, smoke concentration, and fire spread in the building. CFD can also help to evaluate the effectiveness and compliance of different system configurations, scenarios, and standards. CFD can also support the commissioning and maintenance of smoke control and ventilation systems by identifying and resolving any potential issues or defects.

4 Jet fans and impulse ventilation

Jet fans and impulse ventilation are innovative solutions for smoke control and ventilation in large and open spaces, such as atriums, car parks, tunnels, and stadiums. Jet fans and impulse ventilation use high-velocity jets of air to create momentum and induce airflow in the desired direction. Jet fans and impulse ventilation can improve the smoke control and ventilation performance by enhancing the mixing and dilution of smoke and pollutants, reducing the stratification and stagnation of air, and creating a clear layer of visibility and escape. Jet fans and impulse ventilation can also reduce the space, cost, and noise associated with conventional ducted systems.

5 Smoke curtains and barriers

Smoke curtains and barriers are passive devices that can limit and control the movement of smoke and heat in the building. Smoke curtains and barriers can be fixed or deployable, horizontal or vertical, and rigid or flexible. Smoke curtains and barriers can provide several benefits for smoke control and ventilation systems, such as: creating smoke reservoirs and compartments to prevent smoke spreading; directing smoke to the extraction points; protecting the occupants, assets, and structures from smoke damage; and enhancing the aesthetic and architectural design of the building. Smoke curtains and barriers can also complement and integrate with other systems, such as sprinklers, detectors, and alarms.

6 Smoke dampers and louvers

Smoke dampers and louvers are active devices that can regulate and control the airflow in the ducts, openings, and vents of the building. Smoke dampers and louvers can be operated manually or automatically, depending on the system design and requirements. Smoke dampers and louvers can support the smoke control and ventilation performance by: isolating the smoke zones and preventing smoke leakage; modulating the air pressure and flow rate; facilitating the natural or mechanical ventilation; and providing fire resistance and protection. Smoke dampers and louvers can also improve the energy efficiency and comfort of the building by reducing the heat loss and gain through the openings.