Smoke Exhaust Capacity

Natural smoke exhaust systems must be designed around the project's defined fire scenarios and smoke hazard management objectives.

The required exhaust capacity depends on factors such as design fire characteristics, smoke production, building geometry and the intended smoke layer height.

Ventilator sizing, effective aerodynamic opening area and exhaust locations are assessed together to determine how the proposed system can support smoke removal under the specified design conditions.

Airocle works with project engineers to translate these requirements into suitable natural smoke ventilator selections and layouts.

Meeting the NCC's 5% Deemed-to-Satisfy (DTS) opening-area requirement doesn't automatically ensure effective ventilation. Poorly positioned openings can restrict airflow, trap heat at roof level and leave parts of the building with inadequate air movement.

The NCC's Deemed-to-Satisfy (DTS) pathway prescribes minimum natural ventilation opening areas, including the 5% floor-area provision for applicable spaces.

While this provides a defined compliance pathway, meeting the prescribed opening area does not necessarily guarantee effective airflow distribution. Opening location, building geometry and operating conditions all influence ventilation performance.