Applications of smoke control methods

A disadvantage of the airflow method is that it supplies increased oxygen to a fire. Within buildings, the airflow method must be used with great caution. The airflow required to control a wastebasket fire has sufficient oxygen to support a fire 70 times larger than the wastebasket fire. The airflow method is best applied after fire suppression or in buildings with restricted fuel. For more information on airflow, oxygen, and combustion, refer to Huggett, C. 1980, Estimation of Rate of Heat Release by Means of Oxygen Consumption Measurements, Fire and Materials.

Buoyancy method

The buoyancy method clears smoke from large volume spaces with high ceilings. The method employs paths to the outside and relies on hot combustion gases rising to the highest level in a space. At the high point, either a powered smoke exhausting system or a non-powered smoke venting system clears the smoke.

Applications of smoke control methods

Applying the methods of smoke control to spaces within a building provides a building smoke control system. Smoke control methods are most commonly applied to building spaces to provide zoned, stairwell, elevator shaft, and atrium smoke control.

Note:

It is beyond the scope of this user guide to provide mathematical design analysis information for smoke control. For references to design analysis information, see Appendix A, References.

Zoned smoke control

Zoned smoke control uses compartmentation and pressurization to limit smoke movement within a building. Typically, a building consists of a number of smoke control zones. Barriers (partitions, doors, ceilings, and floors) separate the zones. Each floor of a building is usually a separate zone (Figure 3 on page 6). However, a zone can consist of more than one floor, or a floor can consist of more than one zone.

The zone in which the smoke is detected is the smoke control zone. Zones next to the smoke control zone are adjacent zones. Zones not next to the smoke control zone are unaffected zones.

Pressure differences produced by fans limit smoke movement to adjacent and unaffected zones. The system may pressurize adjacent zones and leave all unaffected zones in normal operation (Figure 3(a) and Figure 3(c), page 6). Pressurizing adjacent zones creates a pressure sandwich. Or, the system may pressurize adjacent zones and some unaffected zones (Figure 3(b), page 6). In either case, the system exhausts the smoke control zone, putting it at a negative pressure, relative to adjacent zones.

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Trane Engineered Smoke Control System for Tracer Summit manual Applications of smoke control methods, Buoyancy method
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BAS-APG001-EN, Engineered Smoke Control System for Tracer Summit specifications

The Trane Engineered Smoke Control System is an advanced solution designed to enhance safety and efficiency in buildings by effectively managing smoke during emergency situations. Specifically tailored for integration with the Tracer Summit Building Automation System, the Trane Engineered Smoke Control System (BAS-APG001-EN) combines cutting-edge technologies with user-friendly features, empowering facility managers to maintain optimal air quality and ensure occupant safety.

One of the standout features of the system is its programmable logic capabilities, which allow for customized smoke management strategies based on building layout and operations. This flexibility ensures that smoke is effectively controlled, providing clear egress paths for occupants while maintaining a safe environment for emergency responders. The system is engineered to operate seamlessly with other building systems, including HVAC and fire alarm systems, enabling a cohesive response during smoke events.

The Trane Engineered Smoke Control System employs sophisticated detection technologies that monitor air quality and detect smoke in real-time. This proactive approach facilitates early intervention, allowing for rapid activation of smoke control measures. Additionally, the integration of variable speed fans ensures that smoke is moved efficiently out of critical areas, reducing the risk of smoke inhalation for building occupants.

One of the key characteristics of this system is its ability to provide reliable, redundant operation. With engineered backup systems in place, the reliability of smoke control measures is significantly enhanced, ensuring that they will function correctly even in the event of a power failure. This is especially critical in high-rise buildings or complex structures, where smoke control is vital to occupant safety.

User interface features included in the Tracer Summit system offer intuitive controls and monitoring capabilities, simplifying the management of smoke control operations. Facility managers can easily view system status, receive alerts, and make necessary adjustments through the user-friendly dashboard, enhancing operational efficiency.

The Trane Engineered Smoke Control System stands out as a premier solution for smoke management in contemporary building designs. By integrating sophisticated detection technologies, programmable logic, and reliable operation, it provides an essential layer of safety in creating environments that prioritize occupant protection. As buildings continue to evolve, Trane’s commitment to innovation ensures that its Engineered Smoke Control System remains a key component in modern fire safety infrastructure.
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