Passive and active smoke management systems differ in the way they fight fires. While active fire suppression systems work to put out a fire when deployed, passive systems suppress fires undetected. Active fire suppression systems are more expensive to install, but their effectiveness is far greater than passive systems. They are the perfect choice for buildings prone to fires and are designed to be scalable, meaning they can be used in any setting.
Active smoke management systems
When comparing the two types of fire suppression systems, it’s essential to understand the differences. An active fire suppression system can contain a fire, while a passive one can suppress the fire while it is still spreading. It allows occupants more time to escape and active fire protection systems to do their job. Passive systems are also helpful in saving lives during certain fire conditions. Both types of systems protect building occupants, but there are some essential differences between them.
The primary difference between passive and active smoke management systems is the type of smoke protection required. A passive system is designed to protect a building by maintaining a smoke layer at least six feet above the highest point of walking. An active system is more sophisticated, relying on mechanical equipment and smoke exhaust systems to remove smoke from the building. However, active systems require a standby power source. The design and installation process of smoke control systems will depend on the building’s occupants and occupant characteristics.
Passive smoke management systems
Passive smoke management systems use smoke-rated curtains to contain smoke and limit smoke migration. They are invisible to occupants when not in use. In case of a fire, passive smoke management systems reduce the smoke build-up and give them time to escape. It also decreases the risk of injuries for people and equipment. It is why passive smoke management systems are so crucial for a building. But why should you choose one over the other?
The pressurization system provides air to strategic locations and exhausts it to create pressure differentials across smoke barriers. It doesn’t remove the smoke, but it does help to keep it inside the zone of origin and out of adjacent sectors. Passive smoke management systems are generally less costly than active ones, and a passive smoke control system is often more effective, particularly for high-rise buildings. When determining the best smoke control system, remember that active and passive smoke control systems should be coordinated and balanced.
Zoned smoke control system
A zoned smoke control system can have one or more zones that operate simultaneously. The key to this design is easy-to-understand smoke control panels. The panel should have one switch for each mode. Alternatively, a graphic display can be used to display the floor zones. A smoke venting system is a mechanical means of removing smoke and should be accessible at every floor level. This type of smoke control system can be turned off manually or automatically.
Passive systems help control smoke in a building by channeling it out of a building. They contain smoke and limit the spread of the fire, which makes it easier for firefighters to deal with the fire. Passive systems can also work together to control smoke in a building by preventing it from spreading. Whether a passive smoke management system or an active one, both are important for protecting a building, and smoke management systems are referred to as either passive or active.Building and fire codes and smoke control objectives dictate the design of a smoke control system. Remember, though, that you should consider the owner’s desires before choosing a smoke control system. Some of the prescriptive code criteria preserve a secure environment, while others are based on continuity of operations. When choosing smoke control systems for a building, it is vital to understand the various components and how they function.
In addition to the design of a smoke exhaust system, you also need to consider the effects of makeup air. Makeup air affects plume dynamics and can cause a door to open inadvertently. NFPA 92 requires that multiple smoke control systems be considered when designing a smoke control system. The calculation is complex, but it is essential to know how each component will interact.