What is a fire damper?

Here's some information about fire dampers in Markdown format:

A fire damper is a passive fire protection device installed in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) ducts. Their primary function is to prevent the spread of fire inside the ductwork through fire-rated walls and floors. When a rise in temperature occurs, the fire damper closes automatically, isolating the duct and helping to contain the fire.

Key features of fire dampers:

• Operation: Fire dampers are typically held open by a fusible link or a bimetallic spring. At a specific temperature, the link melts or the spring releases, causing the damper to close. Some advanced dampers are electronically activated.
• Types: Common types include static fire dampers (for systems that shut down in a fire), and dynamic fire dampers (for systems that continue to operate).
• Testing and Certification: Fire dampers must undergo rigorous testing and certification according to standards like UL 555 (United States) or EN 1366-2 (Europe) to ensure their effectiveness.
• Maintenance: Regular inspection and maintenance are crucial to ensure proper operation of fire dampers. This includes checking for obstructions, corrosion, and verifying the fusible link is intact (if applicable).
• Installation: Proper installation is essential for fire dampers to function correctly. They must be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and relevant building codes.
• Building Codes: Building codes mandate the use of fire dampers in specific locations to compartmentalize fire and protect escape routes. Consulting local building codes is necessary to determine where fire dampers are required.