Stairwell Pressurization Systems
We design and validate stairwell pressurization systems for high-rise and multi-story buildings, ensuring safe evacuation routes and effective firefighter access during fire emergencies.
Our systems maintain positive pressure differentials to prevent smoke infiltration, enhance occupant tenability, and support firefighting operations. Each design complies with local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) requirements, the UAE Fire and Life Safety Code, and relevant NFPA and ASHRAE standards.
Through detailed calculations, airflow simulations, and field validation, we ensure every system performs reliably under real fire and environmental conditions.
Our expertise include
Airflow and Pressure-Differential Analysis
We quantify leakage, balance pressures between stairwells, lobbies, and floors, and verify door-opening forces to ensure safe egress and system reliability
System Architecture
We develop single-injection, multi-injection, or compartmentalized pressurization strategies with relief and bypass provisions to prevent over-pressurization and maintain stability during dynamic conditions.
Fan Sizing and Selection
We size and select fans with duty/standby configurations, appropriate temperature classifications, VFD control, and coordinated power and emergency power requirements, ensuring optimal performance and acoustic compliance.
CFD and Network Modeling
We use FDS/PyroSim to simulate thermal and smoke effects, and CONTAM/Ventus to model pressure networks, stack effect, wind influence, and thermal expansion across shafts and zones.
Rational Analysis
We perform comprehensive analyses that evaluate stack effect, fire-induced temperatures, wind pressures, HVAC interactions, climatic influences, and system endurance throughout the fire event.
Controls and Interfaces
We define sequences of operation and configure Firefighter’s Smoke Control Station (FSCS) controls (Auto/On/Off), with FACP and BMS integration, including status monitoring for fan operation, damper position, and differential pressure sensors.
Compliance and Approvals
We prepare coordinated documentation, test protocols, and submission packages, providing full support during inspection, testing, and commissioning for Civil Defense and Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) approvals.
Deliverables
- Stairwell pressurization strategy and, where applicable, performance-based design reports outlining system objectives, design criteria, and compliance basis.
- Airflow and pressure-differential calculations, including door force evaluations and leakage quantification summaries.
- CFD (PyroSim/FDS) and network modeling (CONTAM/Ventus) outputs with both visual and quantitative analysis of system performance.
- Fan schedules, technical specifications, and control schematics covering duty/standby configuration, electrical load, and acoustic requirements.
- Cause-and-effect matrix and I/O lists defining control logic, interlocks, and alarm responses.
- Commissioning plans and Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) submission packages ready for Civil Defense review and approval.
- Field test scripts and validation reports documenting pressure, airflow, and door force testing during commissioning.
