International. The strategic partnership between Belimo and Greenheck has made it possible to develop the first FSKN test module with single-point wiring and UL Certification for combined fire and smoke dampers.
The International Fire Code and local codes require that firebreaks and dampers be maintained in accordance with NFPA 80 and 105 standards. These standards provide for fire and smoke dampers to be tested periodically to confirm that they are working properly.
The FSKN enables building owners to comply with these tests without the need for disruptive visual inspections or costly control methods. This innovative new addressable device communicates via BACnet or Modbus, allowing the position of each damper to be controlled and monitored from a building automation system or fire alarm panel.
Upon receiving the command to perform a test, the FSKN starts the gate cycle and verifies the gate's fully open and fully closed position. An approval or rejection prompt is then stored for reference. Using FSKN to perform gate testing required by code is much simpler and less expensive than traditional control methods. These tests can be performed through BACnet even in inaccessible or hard-to-reach gates.
"Installation is simple. The FSKN is a remote test module, so it can be installed in a convenient location, even mounted directly on the gate handle. It is available in 24-volt and 120-volt options, which can also be used for 208-volt supplies. The power is applied via the FSKN and connected in series with the damper actuator as well as the thermal response device and smoke detector, depending on the type of damper. The gate position indication switches are wired to the FSKN for control. BACnet or Modbus connections are also made to the FSKN for communication with the building automation system.
Regarding the operation of the solution, the companies specify that firstly, the building automation system instructs the FSKN to close the damper by opening a normally closed relay contact and cutting off the power to the damper actuator. The gate position indication switches then verify the correct operation of the closure and the FSKN registers a pass/fail value. Finally, the FSKN reopens the gate by closing its contact and restoring power to the actuator. The building automation system can then read an approval or rejection message via BACnet or Modbus. Any problems or blockages are quickly identified and can then be investigated if necessary.
