A fusible link fire damper is an effective safety feature in buildings that helps to prevent the spread of fire and smoke through a ventilation system. They are a crucial part of a fire prevention strategy in a building and help to minimise its destructive impact.
Here we’ll take a brief look at what a fusible link damper is, how they work and why it’s important to ensure they’re working properly.
What is a fusible link fire damper?
A fusible link fire damper is a type of fire damper that uses a temperature-sensitive mechanism to trigger its closure in the event of a fire. The damper is typically installed in the ductwork of a building’s HVAC system and is designed to prevent the spread of fire and smoke between different areas of the building.
When triggered, the damper blocks the passage of fire and smoke helping to contain the fire and giving time for the building to be evacuated and the fire to be contained.
Fusible link fire dampers are typically installed in areas of a building where fire or smoke may be particularly hazardous, such as between floors, near fire-rated walls, or in stairwells. The dampers are designed to prevent the spread of fire and smoke between these areas, protecting vital exits and giving people extra time to escape the building.
How do fusible link dampers work?
Fusible link dampers use a temperature-sensitive mechanism to trigger their closure in the event of a fire. When the temperature in the building rises to a certain level, usually around 74-100 degrees Celsius, the low-melting point in the fusible link melts, causing the link to separate from the pivot. This triggers a spring-loaded mechanism that closes the damper blades and prevents the spread of fire and smoke through the ductwork.
Fusible link dampers provide a simple and reliable means of limiting fire risk. The temperature-sensitive mechanism is a passive system that does not require electricity or other power sources to operate. This means that fusible link dampers can provide a fail-safe means of fire protection, even in the event of a power outage or other emergency.
Fusible link dampers are also easy to maintain. While they may need to be replaced after they have been activated, they are relatively easy to inspect and test on a regular basis. This can help ensure that they are functioning properly and ready to provide the necessary protection in the event of a fire.
Maintaining your building safety
Regular testing and maintenance are essential for ensuring that your fusible link damper and other fire protection systems can be relied upon.
ECS provides a complete fire damper, or smoke damper, compliance service to ensure that your fire dampers are safe and effective.
Call 01535 600688 or email info@ecs-commissioning.co.uk to find out more about our fire damper testing service.