Safety & peace of mind
Mechanical smoke ventilation systems
Improve your building’s safety with advanced mechanical smoke ventilation systems that deliver superior smoke control.
Protect your building
About our mechanical smoke ventilation systems
Our mechanical smoke ventilation systems enhance your buildings safety. These cost effective engineered solutions allow for more complex building designs, especially in extended corridor arrangements or very tall buildings.
Flo-vent engineered mechanical systems use powered elements such as fans to force movement of smoke through dampers, smoke shafts and fire rated ducting. You will benefit from a more efficient smoke ventilation system as you are not relying on the natural bouyancy of smoke and gas, If space is at a premium, a shaft is under the requirements for a natural shaft or a you have a very tall building, mechanical systems can be tailored to provide an efficient, compliant system, prioritising safety and long term value.
A host of benefits
Why choose Flo-Vent?
Flo-Vent’s expert engineers bring extensive experience in designing, installing, commissioning and maintaining mechanical smoke ventilation systems across diverse sectors. Our systems exceed the functional requirements of building regulations, ensuring maximum reliability and performance. Our mechanical smoke ventilation systems deliver numerous advantages for buildings where natural ventilation isn’t suitable. Here are some of the benefits:
Engineered
control
Extract fans provide precise smoke extraction to suit building layout and are not effected by external conditions such as wind.
Enhanced
performance
Precise and consistent smoke extraction compared to natural systems allow designs in complex layouts and tall buildings.
Versatile
application
Ideal for high-rise buildings, underground spaces and complex layouts.
Space-efficient
systems
Requires less shaft space than natural ventilation systems.
Intelligent
operation
Sophisticated controls allowing pressure sensoring, bespoke fan speeds and extraction rates as needed.
Comprehensive protection
Provides exceptional safety for occupants and emergency services.
Future-proof
systems
Adaptable systems that can be upgraded as your building requirements change.
Expert
support
Full-service package from initial design to ongoing maintenance.
Advice & information
Frequently asked questions
Got a question about our mechanical smoke ventilation systems? Check out our FAQs below for more information. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
What is mechanical smoke ventilation?
Mechanical smoke ventilation systems use powered elements such as extract fans to force the movement of smoke providing controlled and efficient smoke clearance.
How does mechanical smoke ventilation work?
The system uses a vertical smoke shaft or fire rated ducting shafts connected to powered extract fans. When triggered, an AOV damper on an effected floor will open, extract fans run and force smoke into the smoke shaft and out of the building. This will protect the stair and communal lobbies/corridors.
When is mechanical ventilation required?
It is typical required where natural ventilation isn’t possible such as complex and extended travel distance layouts. If properties have limited space and a natural shaft cannot be achieved, and engineered mechanical system can be used.
What triggers the mechanical smoke ventilation system?
The system can be activated by smoke detectors, fire alarms or manual call points.
How reliable are mechanical ventilation systems?
Using fully compliant, tested and reliable products, Flo-vent mechanical systems are very reliable.
Do mechanical systems meet building regulations?
All Flo-Vent systems are designed to meet or exceed the functional requirements of the building regulations whilst following all relevant codes of practice and UK guidance documents.
What maintenance does a mechanical system require?
Regular maintenance and testing is essential to ensure optimal performance. The system should be serviced and tested by a smoke ventilation specialist every 6 months. Flo-Vent can provide a fully compliant testing and service regime.
Can mechanical systems be retrofitted?
Yes, depending on the current building structure and layout, mechanical system can be retro fitted. Flo-vent can assist designers in providing the best system for your building.
How long does installation take?
Installation timeframes vary based on building complexity. We provide detailed project schedules during consultation.
What happens during a power failure?
Flo-Vent control systems have in built battery back up for up to 72 hours after power failure. Fan driver panels will require an alternative power supply to provide back up power to the high voltage fan sets. This is usually provided by power from separate sub stations, generator or UPS back up.
Safety & compliance
Our Gateway 2 expertise
Flo-Vent’s mechanical smoke ventilation systems are designed with Gateway 2 compliance built in. Our technical team understands the specific regulatory demands for higher-risk buildings under the Building Safety Act 2022. We create bespoke mechanical solutions that satisfy pre-construction approval requirements while delivering superior smoke control performance. Each system comes with comprehensive documentation and testing evidence to support your Gateway 2 submission. By engaging Flo-Vent early in your project, you’ll benefit from our regulatory expertise and avoid approval delays. We’ll help you create safer buildings with fully compliant mechanical ventilation.
Let’s talk
Work with us
Choose the gold standard in smoke ventilation. Contact Flo-Vent today for a free consultation about our mechanical smoke ventilation systems. Our specialists will assess your property and design a bespoke solution that delivers outstanding performance and compliance.
Ensure maximum protection for your building and its occupants with our industry-leading mechanical ventilation solutions.
