Done a FRA in a warehouse today, it has ESFR sprinklers and Essmann dual flap smoke vents. Close inspection of the smoke vents reveals a local thermally operated trigger in addition to the central compressor based control panel. The thermal trigger comprises a small CO2 vessel with a green glass bulb fusible link. Nowhere in the manufacturers literature or on the website can I find the temperature rating for the green glass bulb fusible link or the cause and effect of how the local trigger operates. As it releases a small CO2 cartridge on the vent itself I can only assume that the CO2 somehow over rides the normal compressed air "pressure to close" system. Whether this opens one vent or a number I cannot tell. O&M manuals comprise only the sales literature. No comment in the fire strategy document. I called the manufacturers in Germany but could not get any further info other than that contained in the info in the following link see the SHE release device not the emergency release station.
http://www.essmann.co.uk/fileadmin/user_upload/essmann_gmbh/PDF/english/43_Emergency_Release_Station__pneumatic__SHE_Release_Device_DB_4.9_01_08_GB_si.pdfThe central control system is correctly set to manual only but I need to confirm the C&E and operating temperature. I assume them to be alcohol filled 90 degree units but would like to be sure before I recommend replacement or refer to insurers.
Has anyone come across these devices before or can you cast any light on this for me please?
