Smoke and heat extraction system at the Adigeo Verona shopping centre
The Adigeo Verona shopping centre is one of the city’s most important retail destinations and was completed in 2017, covering an area of around 47,000 m². The building envelope of this stylish shopping centre is characterised by large windows and roof surfaces. Reliable smoke extraction in an emergency is essential here to protect people and property. Smoke and heat extraction systems (SHEV) therefore play a strategically important role in the fire protection concept. In addition, the striking architecture of the shopping centre results in high requirements for technical fire protection.
The challenge: integrating a high-performance smoke and heat extraction system into a building envelope with unique architecture
The many glass surfaces in the shopping centre can be used for smoke and heat extraction. © GEZE ITALIA
GEZE was tasked with integrating a smoke and heat extraction system into the shopping centre, one that ensures the building is effectively cleared of smoke in the event of a fire whilst blending discreetly into the architecture. In addition, the system needed to be capable of providing natural ventilation on a day-to-day basis.
Rapid smoke extraction from the building via a smoke and heat extraction system (SHEV) improves visibility and reduces exposure to flue gases in the event of a fire. Such systems improve safety during an evacuation and ensure that emergency services can carry out their operations effectively.
The controlled dissipation of heat reduces the thermal stress on the building itself. The aim is to minimise damage to the building and improve the structure’s durability.
The smoke and heat extraction system provides safety, smoke extraction and natural ventilation
In the event of a fire, fresh air flows in through the doors, improving escape and rescue options. © GEZE ITALIA
Following careful planning, a smoke and heat extraction system was installed that makes use of the chimney effect: in the event of a fire, smoke and heat are systematically extracted from the upper parts of the building in order to reduce toxic gases and limit the rise in temperature. At the same time, fresh air flows in from below, creating a stable, low-smoke air layer in the lower part of the building and keeping escape and rescue routes accessible.
Given the size of the Adigeo, which has over 130 shops, the large number of daily visitors and the complex architecture, particular attention was paid to ensuring rapid and reliable smoke extraction via the windows. Thanks to thorough calculations of the weights and types of the windows to be opened, the GEZE Powerchain electric chain drive provided a solution that ensures long-term reliable performance and full compliance with legal requirements.
DIN EN 12101-2 for natural smoke and heat exhaust ventilators (NSHEV)
Standard EN 12101-2 applies to natural smoke and heat exhaust ventilators (NSHEV) that are marketed and operated as part of natural smoke and heat extraction systems. Within the EU, natural smoke and heat exhaust ventilators (NSHEV) must comply with DIN EN 12101-2. GEZE smoke and heat extraction window drives are tested according to DIN EN 12101-2 as natural smoke and heat exhaust ventilation devices. They meet the requirement that the NSHEV must open fully within a maximum of 60 seconds.
System solution: Integrated smoke and heat extraction system with Powerchain 24V
The GEZE Powerchain is the ideal drive system for particularly heavy windows. © GEZE ITALIA
The chimney effect ensures that smoke and gases escape through the open windows. © GEZE ITALIA
A key component of the solution is the GEZE Powerchain 24V electric chain drive, which is installed on the interior windows and performs both ventilation and smoke and heat extraction functions. Thanks to their seamless integration into the open façade structure, the smoke and heat extraction elements blend harmoniously into the architecture.
The system is controlled via the MBZ 300 SHEV control panel, which is connected to smoke detectors and manual initiating elements. In the event of a fire, the windows open in a coordinated manner to create the desired chimney effect. To ventilate the building using natural ventilation, the windows can be activated individually.
The window drives are designed for large and heavy windows and, thanks to the synchronisation of multiple drives, open even complex shapes smoothly and in a controlled manner. With an opening speed of 15 mm/s and a capacity to handle leaf weights of up to 200 kg, they meet the requirements for rapid and reliable smoke extraction. In addition, integrated GEZE ECdrive automatic linear sliding doors open in the event of an alarm to facilitate both evacuation and air supply.
The result: greater safety in the event of a fire thanks to smart window technology
As an experienced, global supplier specialising in smoke and heat extraction systems and reliable window technology, we are familiar with the requirements for retail buildings as well as country-specific regulations and legislation. We are happy to provide support at every stage of the project – from planning and implementation through to day-to-day operations.
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