Questions and answers

The 92 series fire dampers are maintenance-free. Due to their design and the materials used, such as the complete encapsulation of the actuator mechanics, the thermal release device, the motorized actuators, etc., they can do without ongoing maintenance work to maintain their function. Periodic lubrication, for example, is not required. Maintenance is thus limited to functional checks (triggering and reopening of the fire dampers) or repair measures in the event of damage. Hygienic cleaning must be carried out as part of the overall cleaning of the ventilation and air-conditioning system or as required. 

Due to the fact that the system is maintenance-free, functional checks may also be carried out remotely. This can be carried out particularly easily and economically via the Wildeboer BS2 communication system for fire dampers with automatic calendar control.

For this purpose, the shut-off damper blade of the fire damper must be closed and opened again. The fire damper can be equipped with different release devices or with electric spring return motors for opening and closing.

For the function test, the manual release must be operated or a remote release must be performed to close the shut-off damper blade of the fire damper. Afterwards, the shut-off damper blade must be opened again.

The respective commissioning and function control measures as well as notes on operation are described in the operating instructions.

You can find our operating instructions in the download area.

When it comes to the functioning and operation of fire dampers in accordance with DIN EN 15650, there are several specifications and obligations that must be complied with. We have summarized the essentials in a document that you can view and download here.

If the fire damper cannot be opened, the fusible link sleeve or the thermoelectric fusible link must be checked for integrity. These must be in proper condition and must not show any damage. Refer to the respective operating instructions for the design and replacement.

In addition, no installed parts may obstruct or block the damper blade freewheeling.

If these measures do not work, please contact our technical support.

You will find our operating instructions in the download area.

A minimum distance to adjacent walls and ceilings is not required when installing square fire dampers from Wildeboer Bauteile GmbH. Only a small distance is required for the round fire damper FR90.

The corresponding specifications can be found in the respective user manuals.

Yes. The FK90 and FR90 fire dampers have a certificate of conformity for use in explosion-proof areas. They are available with mechanical release device or electric spring return motor.

Details on how to handle fire dampers containing asbestos-based building materials can be found in our blog post on fire dampers containing asbestos and are summarised in this document (german).

No. The fire dampers each have two inspection openings. These allow a view into the interior of the fire damper, on both sides of the damper blade. Inspection openings can be ordered as an option for the FK90 fire damper. These do not replace openings of corresponding size, which must be provided for cleaning purposes based on relevant standards and guidelines.

Yes, the AMP connectors can be removed.

Yes. The fire dampers are equipped with an electric spring return motor or a thermal-mechanical release device (TMA) at the factory. A fire damper equipped with a TMA at the factory can be retrofitted with a spring return motor. Complete actuator units for the particular damper type are required for the retrofit. These include the motor console, the spring return motor and the electric fusible link.

Yes, it is possible to retrofit a limit position switch for both the open and closed positions of the fire damper. Spring return motors have both limit switches as standard.

An elastic connector, also called an expansion compensator or canvas connector, is suitable for installation between a ventilation duct and components of a ventilation system, e.g. a fire damper. It can absorb changes in the length of the connected duct, burn off in the event of a fire and thus prevent the transmission of force from the ventilation duct to the fire damper.

FK90, FR90 (FR92 and FR92K series) and FK90K fire dampers are CE marked construction products according to the harmonized product standard DIN EN 15650. They can be connected on one or both sides to ventilation ducts made of non-combustible or combustible building materials. In the event of fire, thermal expansion of these ducts must not exert any significant forces on the fire damper. Compensatory measures must be provided in accordance with local requirements. In Germany, the "Guideline on Fire Protection Requirements for Ventilation Systems", or "Ventilation System Guideline - LüAR" for short, contains building code requirements for implementation and necessity. In general, compensation is achieved by suitable pipe routing. There is no general requirement for the use of flexible connectors. 

In addition, when using the FK90 fire damper for commercial kitchens, the specifications of the general building inspection approval Z41.3-670 must be observed. Ventilation ducts made of galvanized or stainless steel must be connected. For the installation of the ventilation duct and limitation of forces, the above-mentioned guideline must also be referred to.

In addition, ventilation ducts on FK90 fire dampers for commercial kitchens are in accordance with the building authority approval

• in metal stud walls 
• in walls made of gypsum wallboards 

via suitable elastic connectors (expansion compensators) made of combustible building materials, at least building material class B2 according to DIN 4102-1. An expansion allowance of ≥ 100 mm in the installed state is required.

On 01 July 2013, the European Construction Products Regulation (CPD, No. 305/2011) came into full force in all EU member states after a transitional period and replaced the Construction Products Directive (CPD, No. 89/106/EEC).

Newly produced fire dampers that fall under the harmonized product standard EN 15650 must already be marked with the CE conformity mark since 01 September 2012. Since July 01, 2013, the manufacturer has also been required to submit a declaration of performance (DoP). He thus assumes responsibility for the conformity of the fire damper with the declared performance. The declarations of performance are available for:

• Fire damper FK90
• Fire damper FR90
• Fire damper FK90K
• Fire protection valve BV90

As a result, Deutsches Institut für Bautechnik (DIBt) may no longer issue or extend general building inspectorate approvals (abZ) for fire dampers that fall under the harmonized product standard EN 15650 and must therefore bear a CE marking. They may no longer be required as proof of usability for national construction projects.

The information required for installation and assembly is fully described in the comprehensive user manuals.

Overflow openings ensure the flow of air between two nearby rooms, e.g. for the ventilation of interior corridors and rooms or for air supply. If overflow openings are provided in fire-resistant walls or ceilings, it must be possible to close them properly. Fire dampers with a smoke release device without connection to a ventilation duct are used here. In the event of a fire, they close the opening and thus prevent the spread of fire and smoke. With the FK90 and FR90 fire damper in combination with OR4 or the OR32 smoke release device, Wildeboer offers solutions with the necessary general type approval from the German Institute for Building Technology, which is required for use in Germany.

An volume flow limiter is a component in ventilation systems that limits the air flow rate to a specified value. It prevents more air than intended from flowing through a section of ductwork in the event of pressure fluctuations in the duct network. In this way, it helps to ensure even air distribution and facilitates the hydraulic or aerodynamic balancing of the system.

An volume flow controller is a component in ventilation systems that regulates or limits the air flow rate in a section of ductwork. By adjusting the flow cross-section, it ensures that the specified air volume reaches the relevant rooms or areas – regardless of normal pressure fluctuations in the duct network. Depending on the design, the volume flow can be maintained at a constant level or adjusted as required. In this way, the volume flow regulator supports reliable air distribution, user comfort and efficient system operation.

An volume flow controller ensures that the set air flow rate is maintained within a ventilation duct. To achieve this, an electronic controller, for example, measures the differential pressure via a measuring orifice or via the damper blade. If the volume flow deviates from the setpoint, the damper blade adjusts the free flow cross-section. As the duct pressure rises, the damper closes further; as the pressure falls, it opens accordingly. In this way, the air flow rate can be kept constant or, depending on the design, adjusted to meet demand.

Volume flow controllers are installed in the supply or extract air ducts of a ventilation system. Typical installation locations include main ducts, branch ducts or duct sections leading to individual rooms or areas of use. The exact position depends on the planned air distribution, the required volume flows and the flow-related installation conditions.

An volume flow controller is used when air volumes need to be precisely regulated or maintained at a constant level. It compensates for pressure fluctuations in the duct network, thereby ensuring reliable air distribution in the connected areas. Typical areas of application include office buildings, schools, hotels and other non-residential buildings.

A constant volume flow controller automatically maintains a set air flow rate within a defined pressure range. If the duct pressure changes, the control damper adjusts accordingly and alters the free flow cross-section. This ensures that the desired air flow is reliably maintained even when there are pressure fluctuations in the ventilation system.

The air flow rate can be controlled using volume flow controllers, volume flow limiters, damper valves or by adjusting the fan speed. The choice depends on the requirements in terms of control accuracy, energy efficiency, acoustics and comfort.

The pressure drop across a volume flow controller depends on its size, the volume flow rate and the controller’s current position. In practice, it is often between approximately 30 and 100 Pa, although this may vary depending on the design. To ensure reliable control, the minimum pressure drop specified by the manufacturer must be observed. The exact design is determined on the basis of the technical data and the intended operating conditions.
 

The recommended air velocity for flow controllers depends on the size, flow rate, control range and the system’s noise requirements. During the design phase, a range is often selected that enables reliable control whilst limiting both pressure drop and flow noise. Air velocities that are too low can affect control accuracy, whilst those that are too high usually increase pressure drop and noise levels. The specific design should therefore be carried out using the technical data for the relevant volume flow controller and the WiDim sizing software.

A pressure controller is used to regulate duct or room pressure and air distribution in HVAC systems. Unlike in flow rate control, it is not the flow rate that is used as the controlled variable, but rather the measured duct pressure. This is maintained at a constant level relative to a specified reference pressure, or variable pressures are regulated to a setpoint.
 

Wildeboer pressure controllers enable precise pressure control in ventilation ducts. The advantages listed on the page include high control accuracy, the ability to shut off an air duct, and the combination of pressure control and volume flow control.

Pressure controllers and volume flow controllers operate on the basis of different control variables. Whilst volume flow controllers regulate the air flow rate, pressure controllers are based on the duct pressure. Because of these different control variables, both methods can be usefully combined in ventilation systems and prevent the system from overshooting.

Maintaining a constant pressure in the ventilation duct reduces the control requirements of downstream volume flow regulators. As a result, pressure control can contribute to the energy-efficient operation of ventilation and air-conditioning systems.

A weather resistant louvres is a component for fresh air or exhaust air openings in ventilation systems. It protects the air duct from the direct ingress of rain, leaves, coarse debris and small animals, whilst allowing air to enter or exit. When selecting a grille, factors such as air flow rate, pressure drop, acoustic requirements and the installation situation on the façade must be taken into account.

When installing weather resistant louvres, care must be taken to ensure they are fitted correctly, securely and in a weather-resistant manner into the external wall or façade. The slats must be aligned in such a way that rainwater is kept out and drained away as effectively as possible. It is also important to ensure a sufficient clear cross-section, appropriate connection dimensions, and to take into account air flow rate, pressure loss and noise levels. The grille should remain easily accessible so that dirt, leaves or foreign objects can be removed as required. In addition, the structural conditions, the façade connection and the specific installation situation must be taken into account during the planning stage. 

A multileaf damper is a component in ventilation systems that can be used to open, close or restrict airflows. It consists of several slats arranged in parallel, which are adjusted together to alter the free flow cross-section. Multileaf dampers are frequently used for shutoff, air volume adjustment or control in supply and extract air ducts. The choice of damper depends on the installation situation, air flow rate, pressure drop and the requirements for airtightness and controllability.
 

The modular design allows easy access to all components once the appliance has been opened. This means that all surfaces and airways can be visually inspected without any problems. If necessary, the completely hygienic design enables quick and easy cleaning.

The WiVent software provides various operating modes for flexible organisation of ventilation operation. Many operating modes allow scheduling with regard to typical daily and weekly sequences. In addition, all operating modes can be customised to the needs of the user via parameters. 
Absence times can also be set up by the day and to the minute. This is possible by using Microsoft Excel tables. For example, the decentralised ventilation system can be set differently for holiday periods. All tables for the holidays of the German federal states can be found in our Wildeboer download area in the "Information material" section.

For a large part of the year, heat recovery is completely sufficient to optimise the temperature of the fresh outside air without additional heating energy. For this purpose, the bypass [5] regulates the supply air temperature to the ideal level.
The WiVent-B is equipped with the latest fan technology [6], which is characterised by infinitely variable control and EC motor technology [6] with backward curved blades for maximum efficiency.

Ventilation of the room via the windows is possible at any time. Window contacts can be used for this purpose, which switch off the ventilation unit as soon as the window is opened. As soon as the window is closed again, the ventilation operation restarts automatically.

Thanks to the changeover flap [1], ventilation can either take place across the entire width of the appliance or via a reduced outlet cross-section. This means that the air is either distributed with low momentum and low flow velocity or with high momentum and far into the room.
In addition to heat recovery, there is a water-led heating coil [2], which provides sufficient heating even on cold winter days and thus even replaces the radiator. 
The water-led cooling coil [3] is optional and ensures a pleasant room climate on hot summer days.

The installation of a room control unit is not mandatory, but recommended, as this allows the individual needs of the user to be addressed on site. In addition, it is of course also possible to make these adjustments via the web interface.

To maximise well-being, the air flows out across the entire width of the appliance [4] and slows down after leaving the appliance. The information obtained from separate room air sensors is used to control the air flow rate as required. The CO2 concentration serves as a control parameter for the room air quality.

The rooms to be ventilated should have a connection to the facade so that outside and exhaust air can pass through. For optimal ventilation of the room, enough space for installation should be considered and a room depth of 8 m should not be exceeded.

WiVent-B is very easy to configure, parameterise, operate and monitor.  Analogue or digital room control units, as well as web-based visualisation via PC, tablet or smartphone, make controlling the WiVent-B a pleasure. Schedules in the form of typical daily and weekly sequences can also be flexibly customised.

An air outlet is the visible terminal element of a ventilation system, through which air is supplied to or extracted from a room. It influences air distribution, airflow within the room and comfort levels in the occupied area. Depending on the application and installation situation, there are various designs available, for example for ceiling, wall or floor installation.

Depending on the room layout and air flow pattern, air outlets can be positioned in ceilings, walls, floors or parapet areas. Key factors influencing the selection include the desired air distribution, the air flow rate, the room geometry and the need to avoid draughts in the occupied area. Their positioning should therefore be tailored to the intended use, comfort requirements and installation conditions as early as the planning stage.

For several Wildeboer products, the airflow can be adjusted using suitable components. Plenumboxes can be optionally fitted with damper flaps, allowing the airflow to be adjusted without dismantling the air diffuser. For VSA and VSZ ventilation valves, the airflow can be continuously adjusted via the rotatable valve disc.

Wildeboer plenum boxes for ceiling air diffusers are suitable for closed ceiling systems, grid ceilings and free-hanging installations. A range of installation heights and connection options allow for flexible adaptation to the specific design and construction of the ventilation system.

Building automation refers to the automatic control, regulation, monitoring and networking of technical building functions. Wildeboer offers the Wildeboer-Net communication system for this purpose, featuring components for fire protection and air distribution. These include, in particular, the KS2 compact controller for centralised, compact control tasks, the BS2 fieldbus system for decentralised control requirements, and other WiNet system components such as the WiNet-SW-02 software, operator panels and gateways for connection to higher-level building management systems.

Building systems engineering refers to the intelligent networking, control and monitoring of technical systems and components within buildings. In the field of ventilation and air-conditioning systems, this relates in particular to fire protection and smoke extraction, air distribution and integration into the overarching building management system. The aim is to ensure safe, efficient and traceable building operation, in which components such as fire dampers, smoke dampers, air flow controllers and fans are controlled and monitored in line with requirements.

The KS2 compact control unit and the BS2 fieldbus system are used to control and monitor fire dampers and to integrate smoke detection devices. They enable the monitoring of damper positions and the carrying out of functional tests. Using the WiNet-SW-02 software, it is possible, amongst other things, to configure trigger groups, sequence controls, fan enable functions and calendar-based controls, as well as to carry out and document functional tests.

The KS2 compact control unit enables centralised, space-saving and clearly organised control of fire dampers, as well as the integration of smoke detection devices. It supports the automatic identification of connected modules. The WiNet-SW-02 software can be used to configure functional tests, calendar-based controls, trigger groups, sequence controls and fan authorisations. The software-based parameterisation, the automatic identification of connected modules and the pre-wired, ready-to-connect design within the control cabinet reduce the overall effort required for engineering, installation and commissioning.

The KS2 compact control system is installed in a control cabinet. It is also possible to install several control cabinets within a building and connect them to one another via the Wildeboer-Net. It is particularly suitable when fire dampers, smoke dampers, louvre dampers, smoke detectors or fans are to be clearly organised within one or more compact control systems.

The BS2 bus control system is a decentralised, modular fieldbus system. The modules can be mounted close to the components and communicate via the BS2 fieldbus. This makes both the BS2 and KS2 equally suitable for spatially distributed ventilation and air-conditioning systems with numerous components, trigger groups and sequential control systems.

KS2 and BS2 can also be combined with one another within the Wildeboer-Net. This allows centralised and decentralised control concepts to be implemented together within a single system.

Yes. The BS2 fieldbus system and the KS2 compact controller can be combined. Both systems can be networked within the Wildeboer-Net and operated and configured across the system using the WiNet-SW-02 software. This allows centralised and decentralised control areas within a ventilation and air-conditioning system to be mapped together.

A BS2 subnet controller has four subnets. Up to 32 motor modules can be connected to each subnet, with each motor module capable of controlling up to two fire dampers with 24 V DC actuators. This means that up to 64 fire dampers can be connected per subnet and a total of up to 256 fire dampers per subnet controller. In addition, up to 32 subnet controllers can be networked together. The specific configuration should be determined on a project-by-project basis, taking into account the system structure and the required modules.

A maximum of 48 fire dampers can be connected to a KS2 compact control unit. Depending on the version, the pre-configured KS2 control cabinet solutions are designed for up to 24 fire dampers and are available either for 24 V DC actuators or for 230 V AC actuators. In the case of a control cabinet assembled by the customer, the individual motor modules can be used for fire dampers with either 24 V DC or 230 V AC actuators.

Wildeboer Connect is a browser-based, centralised platform that brings together product configuration, project management and order overview in a single, unified environment. The aim is to manage different work steps consistently in one place, rather than using separate tools.

The application includes several key features: an integrated product configurator, structured project management, including items and outlines; the creation of specifications, the ability to collaborate via project approval and a transparent order overview for tracking orders.

Configured products are stored as individual items within a project. These items can be organised, supplemented and categorised. On this basis, a consistent set of specifications is created that fully reflects the project-specific requirements.

Wildeboer Connect is constantly being expanded with new features. At the same time, improvements are continually being incorporated into existing processes to keep the application up to date and further optimise the user experience.

The structure is based on items, which can be organised in any way. Additional information, such as installation locations, classifications or project-specific characteristics, can also be recorded. Furthermore, sub-items can be used to represent larger structures.

Yes, so-called ‘custom items’ are available for this purpose. These allow you to add content that is not part of the product catalogue but is required for the project.

Products can be imported directly into Autodesk AutoCAD and Autodesk Revit. In addition, standard export formats such as DWG, DXF and IFC are available, enabling the data to be reused in other design environments.

The order overview clearly displays the current status of orders. This means you can see at any time what stage an order is at, from entry right through to delivery.

Configuration is used to create a specific product variant with all relevant properties. This variant is then transferred to the project, where it is processed further as an item. Project work therefore provides the structural and organisational framework within which several configured products are brought together.

Access is managed via a user management system organised by customer number. An administrator can assign roles and permissions, thereby controlling which functions and information are available to individual users.

Projects can be shared with specific users, even across company boundaries. All those involved work from the same set of data, changes are made directly within the project and remain traceable at all times.

WiDim is designed to identify suitable products based on project-specific constraints and to integrate them seamlessly into the planning process. The application thus provides a sound basis for further planning.

The interfaces enable WiDim to be integrated directly into existing design software. As a rule, WiDim can be launched directly from the relevant application. Existing framework parameters are then imported from the planning stage and used, together with further input, for dimensioning. Once the calculation is complete, the resulting, dimensioned product is seamlessly returned to the planning software, where it is immediately available for further processing. The specific functions and the exact workflow vary depending on the software being used.

Projects from WiDim can be imported into Wildeboer Connect to be further structured, enriched with additional information and, where required, shared with other stakeholders.
Furthermore, products dimensioned in WiDim can be transferred to the BIM Converter. From there, they are passed on to connected design environments such as LINEAR, Autodesk AutoCAD or Autodesk Revit.
This allows the results obtained to be specifically integrated into subsequent design stages and reused.

Yes, all data relevant to decision-making is made available centrally. This eliminates the need to collate information from different sources.

Even with just a few details entered, the system will suggest the first suitable products. As more details are entered, these results become increasingly precise, allowing a robust design to be developed step by step.

Complex requirements are modelled using additional parameters and inputs. The application guides you through this process in a structured manner, ensuring that even extensive scenarios can be captured reliably.

Comprehensive information is available for each product selection, including product data sheets, accessories, installation methods, connection options and related technical documents.

The interfaces enable WiDim to be integrated directly into existing design software. WiDim can usually be launched directly from within the relevant application. Existing framework parameters are then imported from the design and used, together with further input, for the dimensioning process.

Results can be organised and saved within projects. This ensures that calculations and product selections are kept in context and can be accessed again at any time.

The products identified can be transferred directly to subsequent planning stages.

The BIM Converter is used to prepare and make products available for use in CAD and BIM environments. It can also be used to configure and assemble products.

The focus is on integration with Autodesk AutoCAD and Autodesk Revit. These interfaces are used to transfer products directly into the relevant design environment.

The products provided can be inserted directly into drawings. The necessary geometries and data are immediately available and do not need to be created manually.

Different functions are available depending on the target system in question. In general, products can be inserted into the existing design and further processed there. This includes, amongst other things, placing them in air ducts, replacing existing components and adjusting the associated calculations. In addition, operating points can be determined, so that the inserted products can also be technically assessed within the context of the design.

In addition to the geometric information, technical data and associated documents are also available, so that all relevant information is provided within the context of the model.

Yes, products can be put together and customised within the BIM Converter before they are transferred to the design phase.

Yes, the geometries generated can also be exported as 2D or 3D files in DWG, DXF or IFC format for use in other systems.

An EPD (Environmental Product Declaration) is a Type III environmental product declaration according to EN 15804, ISO 14025 and ISO 14044. It describes the energy and resource consumption as well as the emissions into the environment of a building product. The consideration preferably covers the entire life cycle of the product, from "cradle to grave", i.e. from raw material extraction to recycling.

According to the Construction Products Regulation, construction works should be built and used sustainably. EPDs are to be used for the assessment of the sustainable use of resources and the impact of construction works on the environment. For products that are installed in sustainable buildings, the EPD of the product is also used to assess the building, e.g. for certification (DGNB, BNB, LEED, ...).

Examples of our reference properties already certified according to DGNB can be found here.

With EN 15804, a standard for a uniform assessment for the preparation of an EPD was created.

A life cycle assessment by a life cycle assessor recognised by the IBU is required. The IBU (Institut Bauen und Umwelt e.V.) is the programme holder for EPDs in Germany and carries out the verification of the EPD.

An EPD has already been issued for the following fire protection and smoke extraction products:

• Fire dampers: FK90, FR90, FK90K 
• for wood installation including the use of overflow openings, in commercial kitchens
• smoke extraction dampers: EK90 and EKM90

An EPD has already been issued for the following air distribution products:

• Volume flow controllers: VR1, VR1-N, VK2, VRE1, VKE1, VKpro, VRpro, VKup and VRup 
• Volume flow limiter: VRL1
• Pressure regulators: DRpro and DKpro

The prerequisite is a product group rule (PCR) of the IBU as a basic document. This was developed for fire dampers, smoke dampers and volume flow controllers and limiters by the IBU and Wildeboer Bauteile GmbH.

The EPDs contain the energy and ecological data under consideration of the entire life cycle including the high flexibility in use and maintenance-free operation.

The EPDs of Wildeboer products can be downloaded at:

• Institut Bauen und Umwelt e.V. (IBU) (...)
• In the download area (...)
• ECO-Platform (...)

Furthermore, the data from the EPDs of Wildeboer products are available at:

• ÖKOBAUDAT (information portal for sustainable building of the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Building and Nuclear Safety) (...)
• DGNB Navigator (product database of the German Sustainable Building Council) (...)