What is an elevator smoke curtain, and how does it work

Elevator smoke curtains are a simple yet effective safety measure that shields doors and space from the incoming heat and smoke caused by fire. They roll back up automatically after a fire has been put out. Many elevators have smoke curtains in place, and you can find one to match your building’s design. A smoke curtain is installed with a button that raises the curtain automatically after a fire is put out.

Rolling magnetic gasketing system

When it comes to smoke in an elevator, there are several options for containing it. A rolling magnetic gasketing system can contain the smoke in the elevator’s vestibule, minimizing the lobby’s size. Unlike traditional smoke curtains, facility managers can easily maintain this rolling magnetic gasketing system. Moreover, it is far less design-intrusive and does not feel boxy. 

The rollable magnetic gasketing system for elevator smoke curtains is simple to maintain. It is installed above the elevator doors and is fastened to the elevator hoistway’s metal frame.

In the event of a fire, the smoke curtain will hermetically seal the elevator, ensuring that harmful smoke and gases cannot enter. The smoke curtain is also designed to remain closed until the alarm is cleared, allowing occupants and emergency responders to evacuate. Its design makes it the perfect choice for high-rise buildings. If you are looking for a smoke curtain, look no further. These sophisticated smoke barriers are easy to install and completely concealable.

Fire-rated accordion-style doors

Accordion-style doors are an attractive solution to fire-safety concerns. With automatic fire and smoke barriers, these doors keep harmful heat and smoke out of safety areas. Accordions can be made of 1.6-inch aluminum and come with different glazing options. They are ideal for commercial and industrial applications and can match virtually any interior design. A tubular electric drive powers the fire-rated curtain, and the curtain’s movement is controlled by a control unit integrated into the building’s fire alarm system.

Accordion-style doors are ideal for areas where there is limited headroom. Because the doors have an automatic closing mechanism, they’re suitable for elevator lobbies and area separation. Aside from being visually appealing, accordion doors can protect people and property. They’re also a good option for buildings with atriums because they allow natural light to enter the building. An added advantage of fire-rated accordion-style doors is that they contain smoke and prevent the spread of fire. However, fire-rated doors are not completely fireproof and will eventually burn through, but they can provide additional time to evacuate the building safely. 

Gravity fail safe technology

A smoke curtain should be made of a material that is safe for use in an elevator. A gravity fail safe curtain is a much cheaper alternative to automatic smoke curtains. These curtains detect smoke and heat in elevators, triggering an alarm and ensuring safety. A gravity fail safe smoke curtain should also be equipped with a fire detection system. It is essential because smoke and heat can easily penetrate a standard curtain, causing a fire.

A Cookson SmokeShield Elevator is a fire-safe fire-fighting system that allows elevator designers to enjoy greater design freedom in multi-story commercial projects. This system is designed to blend seamlessly into the surrounding architecture when not in use and automatically close in the event of a fire. Its patented GuideLock technology positively re-seals the hoistway to prevent smoke from entering the elevator’s hoistway.

Cost

The cost of an elevator smoke curtain depends on the unit type and features. Many of these units are available in custom colors and finishes to complement the surrounding space. Depending on the needs of the building, you can choose from aluminum, stainless steel, or wood materials for the smoke curtain. SmokeShield Elevator is UL-listed for 12” high and wide with ten feet of headroom. The smoke curtain’s transparent material makes it virtually invisible to building visitors and employees.

Elevator smoke curtain costs are higher than for other smoke protection systems. The installation costs of these products are largely determined by design. Accordion door systems may cost a lot since they require considerable construction and weight and also need anchors to keep the ceiling stable. The rolling magnetic gasketing system is less expensive because it utilizes fewer materials than other potential smoke protection devices. But the installation cost can mount quickly.

Installation

To ensure the proper functioning of the elevator smoke containment system, smoke curtains should be installed appropriately. A smoke curtain must also pass drop and operational tests and be inspected annually. The building owner is responsible for regular maintenance and repairs to the elevator smoke containment system, and owners should employ qualified personnel when performing repairs. The owner must replace the curtain if a smoke guard is beyond repair.

Elevator smoke curtains are highly effective smoke barriers. They are easily installed and do not take up valuable building space. When not in use, they are entirely hidden in the ceiling, allowing architects to design their interiors more creatively. A smoke curtain allows for more leasable space in elevator access floors and eliminates the need for an enclosed lobby. It saves the building’s architect valuable space. When the smoke curtain is in place, it prevents smoke from reaching the floors below.