Smoke Extraction Systems: Operating Principles and Installation Features

Smoke extraction systems are an integral part of comprehensive fire protection in buildings. They ensure the removal of smoke and toxic gases during a fire, creating safe conditions for evacuation and the operation of rescue services. Our company specializes in the design, installation, and maintenance of such systems. In this article, we will explore the main types of smoke extraction systems, regulations and requirements for their installation, and the specifics of integration with fire alarm systems.

Types of Smoke Extraction Systems

Smoke extraction systems are categorized based on their operating principles and design features. The choice depends on the building type, its architecture, and the level of fire risk.

Natural Smoke Extraction Systems

These systems operate using natural draft created by the difference in temperature and pressure between the indoor and outdoor environments. Smoke hatches, windows, or shafts are used, which open automatically or manually.

Advantages: Simple design, low cost, no need for electrical power.
Disadvantages: Dependence on weather conditions, lower efficiency in high-rise buildings.
Applications: Small premises, warehouses, shopping centers.

Mechanical (Forced) Smoke Extraction Systems

These systems use fans to actively remove smoke through dedicated ducts or shafts. They can be paired with supply ventilation systems to balance pressure.

Advantages: High efficiency, controlled operation, suitable for large and complex facilities.
Disadvantages: Higher cost, requires regular maintenance.
Applications: Multi-story buildings, industrial facilities, parking garages.

Combined Systems

These combine elements of natural and mechanical smoke extraction. For example, smoke hatches for natural ventilation are supplemented with fans to enhance draft.

Applications: Versatile for facilities with variable operating conditions.

Our company helps select the optimal system type, considering the specifics of your facility and budget.

Regulations and Requirements

In Ukraine, the design and installation of smoke extraction systems are governed by state building codes (DBN) and other standards. Compliance with these requirements is mandatory for commissioning a facility and ensuring safety.

• DBN V.2.5-56:2014 “Fire Protection Systems”: Specifies requirements for designing smoke extraction systems, including airflow calculations, placement of ventilation ducts, and fan capacity. For instance, the minimum capacity of mechanical systems for public buildings is 20,000 m³/h per 1,000 m² of area.
• DBN V.1.1-7:2016 “Fire Safety of Construction Facilities”: Mandates smoke extraction in buildings with high occupancy (shopping malls, offices) and high-rise structures (above 26.5 m).
• DSTU EN 12101-6:2015 “Smoke and Heat Control Systems”: Regulates technical parameters, including pressure, airflow speed, and high-temperature resistance (fans must withstand up to 400°C for 2 hours).
• Other Requirements: Systems must have backup power (e.g., generators) and be integrated with automatic detectors. Ventilation duct materials must be fire-resistant (EI 60 or higher).

Our company guarantees compliance with all DBN standards, confirmed by commissioning certificates and Ministry of Internal Affairs licenses. Also, read our material on comprehensive fire suppression systems.

Integration with Fire Alarm Systems

The effectiveness of a smoke extraction system largely depends on its synchronization with the fire alarm system. Integration ensures rapid response to smoke detection and coordination of all fire protection components.

• Automatic Activation: Smoke detectors connected to the fire alarm system trigger the smoke extraction system upon detecting fire signs. For example, in mechanical systems, fans start automatically, while in natural systems, smoke hatches open.
• Centralized Control: A control system (panel or software) coordinates smoke extraction, fire suppression, and notification systems. This allows, for instance, simultaneous activation of supply ventilation with smoke extraction.
• Testing and Monitoring: Integration includes regular testing of both systems to verify their interaction. Our specialists perform comprehensive setup to prevent failures.
• Installation Features: During installation, we ensure the use of fire-resistant insulated cables and proper sensor placement (at least 1 m from ventilation openings to avoid false activations).

Our projects include full integration with fire alarm systems, ensuring maximum safety and compliance with regulations.