VOICES | BRADLEY CRISP Dont forget smoke ventilation systems It is vital to adopt a thorough approach to servicing and maintenance of smoke ventilation systems to ensure optimum operational effectiveness. Applied Technologys Bradley Crisp outlines some key practical steps A s highlighted by the Smoke Control Association in Julys CIBSE Journal (Safety in operation), smoke ventilation plays a critical role in mitigating the effect of fires particularly in the early stages of a blaze by keeping escape and access routes free from smoke to allow occupants to exit the building. Such systems are also important in providing a level of reassurance to occupants, and they are an integral part of building safety. However, because they are only required in worst-case scenarios, there can be a tendency to fit and forget these systems. This forms part of a wider industry malaise when it comes to contingency planning, and it is important to note that there are a number of fairly straightforward steps to ensure the ongoing effectiveness of smoke ventilation. Correct storage BRADLEY CRISP is senior industrial and smoke sales engineer at Applied Technology, a division of Elta Fans Regular maintenance After installing the system, regular checks should be carried out during the operational lifespan of the fan. Inspection of the equipment should take place every six months, including testing the AVs, spinning the impeller and checking the running current although this is a general rule and specific applications may need a more regular approach. It is also worth noting that the parts surrounding the fan should be maintained to keep the entire system operating effectively. Elta Fans Applied Technology division, for example, has included an indicative maintenance schedule in its installation and maintenance manual. It recommends that motor bearings are replaced after 20,000 hours of operation or five years of service in normal, ambient conditions, whichever is earlier. Another crucial piece of regular maintenance is to run the fan monthly, as a precaution against grease separation. Other areas of note include an insulation test (every three months), checking the tightness of fixings (every three years), and cleaning impellers (also every three years). Maintenance checks should be more regular in more arduous environments such as transport or marine, where there is likely to be vibration and shock. Care should be taken to keep a maintenance record throughout the operational lifespan of the fan. Alongside following best practice, this will be required in the event of a warranty claim. All maintenance work must be carried out by the manufacturers authorised representative. It is important to stress the responsibility that building owners have to ensure their systems remain operational It is important that, from the outset, smoke ventilation products are stored appropriately. When part of a larger project, fans that are not installed immediately upon delivery can often sit on site for several weeks, or even months. In these circumstances, it is vital that they are kept in the right environment to prevent long-term damage or a reduction in their performance. A fan should be kept in a clean and dry area, free from corrosive fumes, vibration and dust. Temperature fluctuations should also be avoided, with special attention given to removing any shrink wrap used during transportation. This can act like a greenhouse, meaning it gets excessively hot in the sun, before becoming freezing cold at night. Another practical consideration is to rotate the impeller monthly, which helps to prevent grease separation and damage to the bearings. The impeller should not be returned to the same position after rotation. In cases where fans must be stored for more than two years, bearings and grease lines should be flushed and repacked with fresh grease. If in doubt, contact the fan manufacturer for specific guidance on how best to store smoke ventilation units. Dont fit and forget One of the biggest challenges for contractors, engineers and anyone else tasked with installing a system is that, once it is in the possession of end-users, you effectively lose sight of it. It is important to stress the responsibility that building owners have to ensure their systems remain operational. If smoke ventilation is not correctly maintained, they need to be aware that they risk becoming liable. It is up to everyone in the industry to raise standards by highlighting why, and how, to keep equipment in optimum condition. 22 September 2021 www.cibsejournal.com CIBSE Sep 21 pp22 Elta Fans.indd 22 27/08/2021 09:29