Laboratory tests of overpressure differential systems for smoke protection of lobbies

Paweł Szałański,Jacek Misiński,B Kaźmierczak,J Danielewicz,K Piekarska,H Jouhara,M Kutyłowska

doi:10.1051/e3sconf/20172200170

Abstract

Paper presents the methodology of laboratory tests for ventilation overpressure differential systems for smoke protection of lobbies. Research area consists of two spaces representing the lobby and the area under fire equipped with proper ventilation installation. This allows testing of overpressure differential systems for smoke protection of lobbies. Moreover, piece of laboratory tests results for two selected smoke protection systems for lobbies are presented. First one is standard system with constantly opened transfer-damper mounted between lobby and area under fire. Second one - system with so called “electronic transfer” based on two dampers (supplying air to a lobby and to unprotected area alternatively). Opening and closing both dampers is electronically controlled. Changes of pressure difference between lobby and fire affected area during closing and opening doors between those spaces is presented. Conclusions, concerning the possibility of meeting the time period criteria of pressure difference stabilization required by standards, are presented and discussed for both systems.

Highlights

Pressure differential systems (PDS) are the method implemented to maintain safe conditions in protected areas, especially in escape routes
Results of the laboratory tests should present that the PDS is able to maintain proper pressure gradient and air flows for full range of operating conditions and for particular air tightness range of protected area
First one is standard system with constantly opened transfer-damper mounted between lobby and fire affected area (System 1)

Summary

Introduction

Pressure differential systems (PDS) are the method implemented to maintain safe conditions (lack of smoke) in protected areas, especially in escape routes. The task of PDS is to provide proper pressure gradient to obtain proper flow direction of clean air (free of smoke). Results of the laboratory tests should present that the PDS is able to maintain proper pressure gradient and air flows for full range of operating conditions and for particular air tightness range of protected area. Second system with so called “electronic transfer” [1] based on two dampers (supplying air to a lobby and to unprotected area alternately) which opening. In recent years such a systems appeared on Polish market [1]

Laboratory test procedures

Description of the laboratory

Description of examined systems

Sample test results

Findings

Summary