The 2015 International Mechanical (IMC) and Building (IBC) Codes provided new and clear guidance for ceiling radiation dampers (CRDs) that affect architects, engineers, specifiers, contractors, and building inspectors.
The control system includes variable frequency drives (VFDs), a duct sensor, and a separate factory-programmed logic controller (PLC) and can operate as a stand-alone or integrate with a building management system using BACnet.
Chapter 7 of the International Building Code (IBC)1 requires life safety dampers to protect duct and air transfer openings within building separations — fire walls, fire barriers, fire partitions, horizontal assemblies, smoke barriers, and smoke partitions.
Testing and maintenance requirements are provided in Chapter 19 of NFPA 80 for fire dampers and Chapter 7 of NFPA 105 for motorized smoke dampers and combination fire/smoke dampers.
There is frequent confusion about the types of dampers and their applications. This article explains the differences among the damper types and provides a brief overview of the control system requirements affecting their applications.
Greenheck’s HB Series of heavy duty industrial backdraft dampers has grown with the addition of the HBR-150, a round industrial backdraft damper with a flanged-style frame. The HBR-150 is rated for velocities up to 4,000 fpm and back pressures up to 6-inch wg.
Greenheck has developed a UL-approved three-sided retaining angle installation method for fire and combination fire smoke dampers. The company says this method is ideal for installations where the damper sleeve is tight up against a wall, floor, or other obstruction with no room for a retaining angle on one side.
Greenheck has added Model RBD-15 to its line of remote balancing dampers. Constructed of heavy gauge galvanized steel, Model RBD-15 is a multi-blade balancing damper rated for pressure differential up to 4 inch wg. and velocities up to 2,000 fpm.