ASHRAE Journal Supplement - AMCA InMotion - November 2022 - 20

across the switches to determine the
closed wiring. Next, power the damper
open and check for continuity across
the other set of wires. The most common
containment-damper wiring is shown
in Figure 2.
Life-safety damper held open with an aluminum can, evidence that
inspections are needed. Photograph courtesy of Belimo Americas
How do you remotely test actuator-controlled
fire, smoke, and
combination fi re/smoke dampers?
Manufacturers provide a number of
different confi gurations of panels, with
options such as keyed switches, momentary
switches, and selector switches. All
use the same concept shown in Figure 3.
When a damper is open, a green light
or light-emitting diode (LED) on the test
panel will be on. Activating the test switch
approval. See the damper manufacturer's installation
instructions for approved sealants or fi restop material,
should local codes require sealing.
How much space between a mounting angle and
a damper is allowed? A mounting angle should sit
fl ush against a damper sleeve/frame. Normally, a gap of
no more than 1/8 in. (3.2 mm) is acceptable.
Standards and Listings
How do I know if my damper's ratings are current
and correct per the submittal? Per UL requirements,
the damper should bear a label indicating the
maximum static pressure and airflow the damper is
approved to open and close under. Additionally, you
can search UL's UL Product iQ website (https://bit.ly/
Product_iQ). The minimum airfl ow and static pressure
for a UL 555S listing is 2,000 fpm (10.2 m/s) and 4.0 in.
wg (1 kPa) at 250°F (121°C).
Inspection and Testing
How do you test auxiliary switches on fire
dampers (actuator-driven only), smoke dampers,
combination fi re/smoke dampers, and actuators?
Make sure the switch package is not connected to
anything. With the damper closed, check for continuity
20
2022 AMCA inmot ion
will cut power to the actuator and, thus, close the
damper. Once the damper is closed, the green light or
LED should be off, and a red light or LED should be on.
Deactivating the test switch will restore the power, and
the green light or LED should be on again. The test then
is fi nished. Following installation, damper-blade position
should be visually inspected to confi rm the wiring
and switches are correct and operational.
Alternately, a fire-alarm or building-automationsystem
module can take the place of a remote-test panel
and allow testing from a central control panel (Figure 4).
Conclusion
Restricting the spread of fl ame and smoke in the event of
a building fi re, life-safety dampers play a critical role in
the protection of people and property. Considering the
stakes, it is imperative for buildings professionals to pay
attention to details and understand the fi ner points of
the devices' application, installation, and maintenance.
About the Authors
Dane Carey is director of engineering for TAMCO; James
Carlin is product manager, dampers, for Pottorff; Larry
Felker is manager, product management, fi re and smoke,
for Belimo Americas; and Kent Maune is senior product
manager for United Enertech.
www.amca.org
https://www.bit.ly/Product_iQ https://www.bit.ly/Product_iQ http://www.amca.org
ASHRAE Journal Supplement - AMCA InMotion - November 2022

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of ASHRAE Journal Supplement - AMCA InMotion - November 2022
