A fire damper is a device installed in ducts and air transfer openings of an air distribution or smoke control system that is designed to close automatically upon detection of heat. In doing so, the damper interrupts migratory airflow, resists the passage of flame and maintains the integrity of the fire-rated separation.
The significant protection capabilities of fire dampers to life and property are widely recognized by facility managers. As a result, more and more authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) and building owners are requiring fire dampers to be operationally tested and maintained on a regular basis. The goal is to ensure that dampers will function when necessary to resist the spread of fire.