PSB Car Park Systems – Below Ground
Car Park Above ground
Building smoke control
Control systems & panel supply
We design and install mechanical smoke extract systems for car parks, helping to control smoke spread and maintain tenable conditions during a fire.
Systems may include:
- Zoned mechanical smoke extract
- Jet fan ventilation systems
- Integration with fire detection and control systems
Frequently
Asked Questions
What is impulse ventilation and how does it work?
Impulse ventilation uses strategically positioned jet fans to create controlled airflow patterns without extensive ductwork. The high-velocity fans induce surrounding air movement, creating a multiplier effect that moves large air volumes using relatively small fans. In normal operation, fans direct pollutants towards extraction points maintaining air quality. During fire emergencies, the system reverses or adjusts to clear smoke along predetermined paths, maintaining visibility for evacuation and Fire Service access. This ductless approach reduces installation costs, increases usable height, and provides more flexible, efficient ventilation than traditional ducted systems.
What are the regulatory requirements for car park ventilation?
UK car park ventilation must comply with Building Regulations Approved Document B for fire safety and Approved Document F for ventilation. BS 7346-7 provides specific guidance for car park smoke control systems. Requirements include: maintaining CO levels below 30ppm (8-hour average), limiting NO2 to workplace exposure limits, achieving 10 air changes per hour for smoke clearance, providing 3m visibility at 1.8m height during fires, and automatic activation within 60 seconds of fire detection. Systems require regular testing under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, with annual certification confirming operational readiness.
How much can impulse ventilation save compared to traditional systems?
Impulse ventilation typically delivers 30-40% capital cost savings through eliminated ductwork, reduced excavation for lower ceiling voids, simpler installation requiring less time on-site, and fewer extraction fans due to efficient air movement. Operational savings of 50-70% arise from demand-controlled ventilation responding to actual pollution levels, reduced fan power through efficient air movement patterns, lower maintenance without duct cleaning requirements, and extended equipment life from optimised operation. Most projects achieve payback within 3-5 years through energy savings alone.
Can existing ducted systems be converted to impulse ventilation?
Yes, many older ducted systems can be successfully converted to impulse ventilation, often improving performance whilst reducing operating costs. Conversion typically involves: CFD analysis of existing car park geometry, strategic placement of impulse fans to create optimal airflow, retention of main extraction fans where suitable, upgraded controls with CO/NOx monitoring, and commissioning with smoke tests validating performance. We’ve completed numerous retrofits, often increasing usable parking through removed ductwork whilst improving air quality and reducing energy consumption.
How are car park ventilation systems controlled?
Modern car park ventilation employs sophisticated control strategies optimising energy use whilst maintaining air quality. Systems incorporate: CO and NOx sensors continuously monitoring pollution levels, variable-speed drives adjusting fan output to demand, time scheduling reflecting usage patterns, integration with fire detection for emergency operation, and BMS connectivity for centralised monitoring. Our control philosophy typically maintains background ventilation with sensor-triggered boost operation, achieving optimal air quality with minimal energy consumption. Emergency override ensures immediate maximum extraction upon fire detection.
What maintenance is required for car park ventilation systems?
Regular maintenance is crucial for system reliability, particularly emergency smoke control functions. Weekly checks verify basic operation, monthly tests confirm all fans and controls function correctly, quarterly inspections include sensor calibration and bearing checks, and annual comprehensive testing demonstrates full emergency performance. PSB UK Ltd maintenance programmes include: detailed inspection schedules, genuine replacement parts, 24/7 emergency support, compliance certification, and system performance optimisation. Poor maintenance risks lives during emergencies and regulatory non-compliance. Our trained technicians ensure your system maintains the exacting standards for which PSB UK Ltd is renowned.