What is the most commonly used fire damper type?

The most commonly used fire damper type is the curtain damper. This type of damper is designed to automatically close when a fire is detected, thereby preventing the spread of smoke and flames through ductwork. Its operation is typically triggered by heat-sensitive elements that release the damper blades to close off airflow.

Curtain dampers are particularly favored in many HVAC applications because they can be installed within walls, ceilings, and floors, offering flexibility in various building designs. Their effectiveness in maintaining compartmentation during a fire is critical for ensuring safety and compliance with building codes, which often require fire dampers to be installed in specific locations based on the design of the fire safety strategy.

When considering other types of dampers, while inline dampers and multi-blade dampers serve specific purposes, they are not as frequently utilized as fire dampers in general HVAC systems. Inline dampers are typically used for airflow regulation rather than for fire containment. Multi-blade dampers may not provide the straightforward sealing capabilities that curtain dampers do. Vertical dampers have similar functions to other dampers but are less common compared to curtain dampers, particularly in fire-rated applications.

This understanding helps to clarify why curtain dampers are preferred for fire safety, as their design