Technical Manual
(European Standards)
Version 1.0 (0517)
- System Overview
- Installation
- Maintenance & Troubleshooting
- Manufacturing
Information
THE LEADING EDGE IN Smoke & Fire Curtains
Office Tel: 0114 251 4703 Email: enquiries@blecurtains.com
Website: www.ble-smokeandfirecurtains.com
Contents
1
System Overview
1.1
1.2
1.2.1
1.2.2
1.2.3
1.2.4
1.2.5
Description
Components
Fabric
Motor and shaft assembly
Roller tube
Headbox
Side guides
1.2.6
1.3
1.3.1
1.3.2
Bottom bar
Control system
Group control panel (GCP)
Motor control circuit (MCC)
2
Installation
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
2.5.1
2.6
2.7
2.8
2.9
2.10
2.10.1
Fixings information
Headbox
Side guides
Roller mechanism
Motor control circuit (MCC)
MCC Wiring Instructions
Group control panel (GCP) 1st fix
Mains electrical supply
Bottom bar
Group control panel (GCP) 2nd fix
Control options and accesories
General control options
- Smoke / heat detector
- Fusible link
- GCP interlinking
Standard control options for Multi Function
GCP
- Manual override
- Two stage descent and setting delay timers
- Individual override interface (IOI)
Additional control options for Multi Function
GCP
- Audio visual facilities
- Obstruction sensors
2.10.2
2.10.3
3-4
5-6
5
6
7
7-10
10
10
11
12
13-14
15
16
16
16-17
18-19
18-19
19
20
20
20-21
22-24
22
23
24
3
Maintenance & Troubleshooting
3.1
3.2
3.3
Weekly testing
Annual Maintenance
Troubleshooting
4
Manufacturing Information
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
Site conditions
Straight smoke curtains without side guides
Angled curtains without side guides
Facetted curtains without side guides
Fire curtains and smoke curtains with side
guides
5
Installation Notes
25
25
26
Installation notes
27
27
28
28
28
29-30
Contact Information
BLE Smoke & Fire Curtains Ltd
Unit 3 Holbrook Commerce Park,
Holbrook Rise,
Sheffield,
S20 3FJ
Tel: 0114 251 4703
Email: enquiries@bluecurtains.com
Website: www.ble-smokeandfirecurtains.com
Follow us on:
linkedin.com/
company/firecurtains
Twitter @firecurtains
2
1. System Overview
1.1 DESCRIPTION
BLE active smoke and fire curtains consist of a woven glass fibre fabric wound onto a tubular steel roller
assembly incorporating a 24V permanent magnet motor. The roller assembly is fitted inside a
galvanised steel head box that can be fixed directly to the structure of the building.
A Group Control Panel (GCP) is used in conjunction with Motor Control Circuits (MCC) to operate upto 6
No. 24V permanent magnet motors to control the deployment and retraction of the curtains. In normal
conditions the GCP provides a 24V supply to the motors and the curtains are held in the retracted
position in the head box. When a fire alarm is activated the contact in the GCP is opened and the
power is removed from the motors, releasing the curtains to deploy under gravity in a controlled
manner (Gravity Fail Safe). When the fire alarm system is reset the GCP reinstates the 24v supply to the
motors and the curtains are retracted to their normal position in the head box. Current limiting
switches detect when the curtain has fully retracted and the supply voltage to the motor is stepped
down to a holding voltage. Motor limit switches are not required.
In the event of a mains power failure the 2 No. 12v 7ah back-up batteries supplied with the GCP can
maintain full control of the system for up to 4-hours. If a fire alarm signal is activated during a mains
power failure the Fire Curtains will deploy in a controlled manner as normal.
Manufacturing is to BSEN ISO 9001 and all BLE curtains have been extensively tested to the appropriate
European Standards, including BSEN12101 Part 1: Smoke and heat control systems, BSEN1634 - Part
1: Fire resistance test for door and shutter assemblies and openable windows, and BSEN1634 – Part 3:
Smoke control test for door and shutter assemblies.
Smoke Curtains stop the spread of smoke and/or help channel it to an extraction system. In operation
Smoke Curtains typically remain above head height to allow the safe passage of people underneath.
Fire Curtains stop the spread of fire and in operation descend fully to floor level as well as
incorporating side guides to ensure a secure fire seal with the building structure.
4
1.2 COMPONENTS
1.2.1 FABRIC
1. X32K
2. C41000WK
3. EW-BI
4. V4A
Four types of fabric can be specified depending on the application and smoke/fire rating
require:
1. X32K - Micronised aluminium polymer coated glass fibre fabric. Manufactured weight of 540g/m².
Used on model FC1 fire curtains and model SC1 smoke curtains, as well as model SC2 fixed smoke
barriers. Has a fire rating of up to 1 hour for integrity (E) and irradiation (W), depending on the size of
the curtain. And a smoke rating of 2 hours at 600oC.
2. C41000WK - Micronised aluminium polymer coated glass fibre fabric with stainless steel
reinforcement. Manufactured weight of 700g/m². Used on the model FC2 and HC1 fire curtains. Has a
fire rating of up to 4 hours for integrity (E) and 1 hour for irradiation (W), depending of the size of the
curtain.
3. EW-BI – Intumescent coated glass fibre fabric with stainless steel reinforcement. Used on model FC3
fire curtains. Has a fire rating of up to 240 minutes for Integrity (E), and 90 minutes for Irradiation (W),
depending on the size of the curtain.
4. V4A – Composite fabric with two layers of stainless steel reinforced glass fibre fabric with aluminium
foil laminated to both sides. Used on the model FC4 fire curtain. Has a fire rating of up to 2 hours for
integrity (E) and 2 hours for irradiation (W), depending on the size of the curtain.
The fabrics are manufactured in rolls of various widths, with the finished curtains normally
assembled from multiple panels sewn together along their length. Each panel overlaps the adjacent
panel by 50mm with hems stitched using two rows of stainless steel thread.
Where side guides are required the fabric incorporates securing tabs along the vertical edges with a
retaining mechanism that securely locates the fabric into the side guides. The fabric is normally
supplied with a slightly longer drop than specified. This allows for accurate fixing of the bottom bar
and final trimming of the fabric on site. Table 1 and Table 2 give the size limitations and fire/smoke
ratings for the full range of BLE Smoke and Fire Curtains to European standards.
Table 1 – BLE Fire Curtain Product Matrix (European Standards)
Designation
FC1
FC2
FC3
FC4
Single
Roller
Multi
Roller
Max
Width (M)
Max
Drop (M)
Fire Resistance (mins)
Yes
No
3.0
3.0
60
-
Yes
No
2.8
2.5
60
30
Yes
No
1.4
2.5
60
60
Yes
No
7.0
8.0
60
30
Yes
No
7.0
7.0
120
30
Yes
No
7.0
6.0
180
30
Yes
No
7.0
5.0
240
30
Yes
No
2.4
2.7
240
60
No
Yes
Unlimited
6.0
240
-
Yes
No
2.6
2.7
240
90
Integrity
(E)
Irradiance
(W)
Yes
No
7.0
5.0
60
60
Yes
No
2.6
2.7
120
120
Test
Standard
BSEN 1634
Certifire CF5432
BSEN 1634
Certifire CF5433
BSEN 1634
WF333584
WF334668
WF349969
BSEN 1634
Horizontal
HC1
Yes
No
7.0
4.0
60
60
Yes
No
6.0
6.0
180
-
Certificate /
Reports
WF341904
WF342381
WF349970
BSEN 1634
WF333819
WF333952
WF337802
Table 2 – BLE Smoke Curtain Product Matrix (European Standards)
Designation
Single
Roller
Multi
Roller
Max Width
(M)
Max Drop
(M)
Classification
Test
Standard
Certificate / Reports
Active Barrier
SC1-D120
Yes
Yes
Unlimited
10.0
D120 / DH60
BSEN
12101
Certifire CF5030
EC CoC 112-CPD-FA0001
Fixed Barrier
SC2-D120
Yes
Yes
Unlimited
10.0
D120 / DH60
BSEN
12101
Certifire CF5030
EC CoC 112-CPD-FA0001
1.2.2 MOTOR & SHAFT ASSEMBLY
The standard smoke and fire curtain motor is a 24v dc
unit manufactured in-house and installed into the end
of the roller tube. Each motor is supplied with a factory
fitted drive coupling to suit the type of roller tube
being used. The motors can be manufactured with either
a clockwise or anti-clockwise retract operation (when
viewed on the end of the motor).
The shaft assembly is normally fitted into the roller tube
at the opposite end to the motor and consists of two
bearings and a free-sliding shaft. For curtains
incorporating a two-stage descent facility the motor also
incorporates a 24v brake unit.
NOTE
For large curtains (depending upon the weight of the fabric and bottom bar) it is sometimes
necessary to use two motors in the roller tube, rather than one motor and one shaft.
6
1.2.3
ROLLER TUBE
BLE Smoke and Fire Curtains incorporate a 76mm diameter 4mm thick steel tube as standard. For larger
curtains, depending on the weight of the fabric and bottom bar, a heavier 127mm diameter roller tube
may be required to limit deflection and ensure smooth operation.
Where multiple rollers are used to make up wide curtains the curtain fabric is overlapped. Overlaps are
nominally 200mm for Smoke Curtains and 600mm for Fire Curtains. For multiple roller curtains each
individual roller should be of the same length to ensure that the curtain deploys evenly.
1.2.4 HEADBOX
The standard curtain head box is manufactured from 1.2mm thick (18swg) galvanized steel sheet. It is
typically manufactured in 2500mm wide sections. For wider curtains joining sections are included to
enable the sections to be connected together. The head box comes as standard with a removable cover
plate which forms the underside of the box and allows access to the roller mechanism. The cover plate
is attached using self-tapping screws as standard. Head boxes are also available with removable side
access panels as an option. The overall dimensions of the head box are dependent upon the width and
drop of the curtain.
NOTE
For all fire curtains over 2.5m wide additional roller support brackets are fitted inside the head
box to support the roller as it deflects due to the extreme temperatures in a fire. These support
brackets are supplied loose and must be fitted after the roller mechanisms are installed into the
headbox. The omission of these components will result in the assembly not meeting the fire test
criteria.
Model FC1 Fire Curtain – Standard Headbox Size
(180mm x 180mm if over 2.5m wide)
Curtain Drop
Single Roller
< 3m
150mm x 150mm
Model FC2 Fire Curtain – Standard Headbox sizes
(* 150mm x 150mm if less than 2.5m wide)
Curtain Drop
Single Roller
Over / Under
Multiple Roller
Side by Side
Multiple Roller
< 3m
180mm x 180mm*
180mm x 310mm
310mm x 180mm
3 - 6m
210mm x 210mm
210mm x 350mm
350mm x 210mm
6 - 8m
230mm x 230mm
NA
NA
8
Model FC3 Fire Curtain – Standard Headbox
Curtain Drop
Single Roller
< 3m
235mm x 255mm
3 -5m
255mm x 275mm
Model FC4 Fire Curtain – Standard Headbox
Curtain Drop
Curtain Width
Single Roller (76mm)
< 4m
< 5.5m
210mm x 210mm
Curtain Drop
Curtain Width
Single Roller (127mm)
< 4m
5.5m - 7m
235mm x 255mm
Model HC1 Fire Curtain – Standard Head Box sizes
Curtain Drop
Single Roller (2№ Per Curtain)
< 6m
230mm x 230mm
Model SC1 Smoke Curtain - Standard Head box sizes
Curtain Drop
Single Roller
Over / Under
Multiple Roller
Side by Side
Multiple Roller
< 3m
150mm x 150mm
150mm x 250mm
250mm x 150mm
3 - 6m
180mm x 180mm
180mm x 310mm
310mm x 180mm
6 - 10m
210mm x 210mm
210mm x 350mm
350mm x 210mm
1.2.5 SIDE GUIDES
Side guides are mandatory on all Fire curtains and can also
be used on smoke curtains to limit smoke leakage and
deflection if required. The edge of the fabric is locked into
the guide to provide a seal with the building structure. The
side guides are manufactured from 2mm thick galvanized
mild steel and are 100mm deep and 50mm wide with a
10mm throat. They can be supplied with fixing angles
attached or with the sides being drilled and capped to allow
for face fixing to the building structure.
1.2.6 BOTTOM BAR
The standard bottom bar consists of twin 20mm x 20mm
x 3mm steel angles fixed back-to-back to form an inverted
“T”. To ensure the curtain deploys correctly the weight of
the bottom bar must be a minimum of 4kg. If two motors
are used in a single roller the bottom bar weight must be a
minimum of 9kg. The foot of the bottom bar is removed at
each end to enable it to enter into the side guides. Heavier
bottom bars than standard can be supplied to ensure
correct deployment of the curtains and/or to limit the
deflection of the curtain under the pressures created by the
hot gases in a fire.
10
1.3 CONTROL SYSTEMS
A Standard or Multi-Function Group Control Panel (GCP) is used in conjunction with Standard or
Multi-Function Motor Control Circuits (MCC) to operate up to 6 No. 24V permanent magnet motors to
control the deployment and retraction of the Curtains. If a single curtain or if the operations of multiple
curtains with a total of more than 6 motors requires to be syncronised then Multi-Function GCPs should
be used, which enable the GCPs to be linked.
Group Control Panel (GCP) - External & Internal
Motor Control Circuit (MCC) - External & Internal
In normal conditions the GCP provides a 24V supply to the MCC and the curtains are held in the
retracted position in the head box. When a fire alarm is activated the contact in the GCP is opened and
the power is removed from the motors, releasing the curtains to deploy under gravity in a controlled
manner (Gravity Fail Safe). When the fire alarm system is reset the GCP reinstates the 24v supply to the
MCC and the curtains are retracted to their normal position in the head box. Current limiting
switches detect when the curtain has fully retracted and the supply voltage to the motor is stepped
down to a holding voltage.
In the event of a mains power failure the 2 No. 12v 7ah back-up batteries supplied with the GCP can
maintain full control of the system for up to 4-hours. If a fire alarm signal is activated during a mains
power failure the Fire Curtains will deploy in a controlled manner as normal.
1.3.1 GROUP CONTROL PANEL (GCP) - FEATURES & OPTIONS
LED status Indicators - LEDs on the front of the Standard GCP display the status of the mains supply,
battery charge, alarm and any fault in the CPU. The Multi-Function GCP has extra LEDs that display if a
delay timer or override function is active.
Manual override – Facility to temporarily raise all the curtains connected to the GCP after deployment,
for emergency egress.
Two stage descent – Programmable timer delay that deploys the curtain in two stages to allow egress
before full deployment of the curtain. First stage deployment time from 0 – 20 seconds followed by a
delay of up to 90 seconds before full deployment.
Delayed descent – Programmable timer delay of up to 90 seconds after the fire alarm signal is
activated before full deployment of the curtain.
Delayed ascent – Programmable timer delay of up to 90 seconds after the fire alarm signal is reset
before retraction of the curtain.
GCP interlinking – Enables multiple GCP’s to be connected when more than 6 motors are controlled by
one alarm signal, to ensure synchronisation of curtain descent and retraction.
Heat or Smoke detector – Can be used in place of, or in combination with, the main fire alarm signal.
Requires a manual reset button.
AV facility – Audio Visual Unit that activates to warn that the curtains are descending. Sounder beacons
can also be used.
BMS connection – The GCP can be linked to a Building Management System to show the status of mains
power, battery charge, alarm, timer delays and manual override.
Curtain released signal – Signal to the BMS to confirm that the curtain has been released.
Obstruction sensor – Gives a warning if there is an obstruction in the path of the curtain.
Feature
Standard GCP
Multi-Function GCP
Controls up to 6 motors
Yes
Yes
2 x 12v 7ah backup batteries
Yes
Yes
Test key switch
Yes
Yes
LED status indicators
Yes
Yes
Manual override (requires push button)
No
Yes
Two stage descent facility (requires brake motor)
No
Yes
Delayed descent
No
Yes
Delayed ascent
No
Yes
GCP interlinking
No
Yes
Option
Option
AV connection facility
No
Option
Building Management System (BMS) connection
No
Option
Obstruction sensor facility
No
Option
Curtain released signal facility
No
Option
Heat or smoke detector with manual reset button
NOTE
The Multi-Function GCP can control a maximum of six standard MOTORS, or a maximum of three
large 127 roller motors.
12
GCP Specification
Power input
230Vac 50Hz
Alarm input
Normally closed volt free. Open on fire alarm
activation. Confirgured to be fail safe.
Dimensions and finish
Hinged door, white painted mild steel
enclosure 396mm High x 334mm Wide x
105mm Deep
1.3.2 MOTOR CONTROL CIRCUIT (MCC) - FEATURES & OPTIONS
Controlled curtain descent – Back electromotive force (EMF) of the curtain motor ensures the
controlled gravity fail safe deployment of the curtains.
45 / 90 second ascent run timer – For longer curtain drops the run timer can be set to 90 seconds to
ensure the curtain retracts fully into the head box.
Current controlled ascent – When the curtain has fully retracted the motor voltage is reduced. No limit
switches are required.
127 motor control – Larger 127mm diameter rollers/motors can be used for large/heavy curtains.
Individual Override Interface – Manual override for an individual curtain on a GCP loop that contains
multiple curtains. The period of time the curtain remains raised after the IOI is activated can be
controlled from 0 -90 seconds.
Feature
Standard MCC
Multi-Function MCC
Controlled curtain descent
Yes
Yes
45 or 90 second ascent run timer
Yes
Yes
Current controlled ascent (no limit switches)
Yes
Yes
Two stage descent facility (requires brake motor)
No
Yes
Larger 127mm motor control facility
No
Yes
Individual Override Interface (requires push button)
No
Yes
CAUTION
If the MCC is installed remote to the headbox with the motor cable exposed then the motor cable
must be protected in a fire rated conduit.
WARNING
Ensure that the motor flying lead is connected into the MOTOR + and – terminals on the PCB and NOT
the “SUPPLY IN” Terminals. Incorrect connection will damage the motor. See wiring
schematics for full wiring details.
MCC Specification
Input voltage
27Vac / 24Vdc
Outout voltage
24Vdc
Dimensions and finish
White painted mild steel enclosure
145mm High x 250mm Wide x 50mm Deep
14
2. Installation
2.1 FIXING INFORMATION
Coach Screw
G-Clamp
HKD Expanding
Fittings
M10 Screw with
nut & washer
Tek Screw
Unistrut
Unistrut
V Nut / Wedge
CAUTION
Care should be taken when removing any packaging from the equipment. Particular attention must
be paid to the roller mechanism where the curtain fabric can be easily damaged by sharp tools.
2.2 HEADBOX
The headbox is manufactured from galvanised mild-steel sheet. Fixings to the main structure will depend on the material used - please refer to site specific drawings. The installer must ensure that the
fixings do not protrude into the headbox and are kept clear of the roller location.
CAUTION
It is essential that the headbox is installed straight and level. Failure to do this may result in the
fabric “travelling” sideways along the roller tube when retracting. In the worst case this will result in
snagging and will compromise the operation of the curtain.
Large headboxes are supplied in sections with joiner pieces to connect the sections together. Each section
is marked internally according to its correct location within the box. For fire curtains extra roller support
brackets are required when the headbox length is greater than 2.5m. These are required to support the
roller as it deflects due to the heat of a fire. They are supplied semi-assembled within the headbox to confirm their position but completing the assembly can only take place after the rollers have been installed.
2.3 SIDE GUIDES
Galvanised steel side guides are mandatory on all fire curtains to form a seal between the curtain fabric
and the building structure. The guide should be positioned such that the back of the guide is aligned with
the end of the headbox and the side of the guide is flush with the side of the headbox. This
ensures that the curtain fabric will be positioned centrally within the throat of the guide when the
curtain is retracted and the bottom bar will sit flush with the underside of the headbox.
CAUTION
The guides must be installed flush and level and without any twisting. They should be installed on a
smooth surface with suitable packing out if required.
2.4 ROLLER MECHANISM
Extreme care much be taken when removing the packaging from the roller to ensure no damage to
the curtain fabric with sharp tools.
The roller mechanism consists of the roller tube, motor, shaft and fabric. The fabric is pre-wound
onto the tube and fixed using a 16mm x 3mm flat mild steel strip. The motor has a cable for
connection to the MCC and the shaft has a retractable spindle.
NOTE
Depending upon the size of the curtain, the roller may be supplied with two motors, one
positioned at each end of the tube.
A 20mm stuffing gland (not supplied) should be used to pass the motor cable through the headbox.
The motor positions are pre-marked inside the headbox.
16
CAUTION
The roller mechanism should be positioned into the headbox and the motor and shaft located onto the
factory installed roller brackets. The motor must be correctly orientated so that the cable runs over the top
of the locating pin on the bracket. Split pins MUST then be installed through the holes on the side of the
bracket and pass through the motor end support and shaft. If these are not in place then it is possible for
the roller to disengage from the bracket. The motor cable should be passed through the headbox stuffing
gland ensuring that it will not snag on the roller during operation.
Where multiple rollers are used to make up continuous curtains the curtain fabric is overlapped.
Overlaps are nominally 200mm for Smoke Curtains and 600mm for Fire Curtains.
When the roller has been installed approximately 100mm of fabric should be unwound from the roller and
headbox cover plates fixed into position. Ensure that the fabric is accessible through the slot formed by
the cover plate.
CAUTION
If the ends of the motor wires on the flying lead are touching it will not be possible to rotate the
roller without exerting excessive force. This could damage the motor.
2.5 MOTOR CONTROL CIRCUIT
The motor control circuit is housed in a metal enclosure. It should be mounted adjacent to the motor
position to enable the motor cable to be connected directly into it. If the MCC is installed remote from
the headbox with the motor cable exposed then the cable must be protected in fire rated conduit.
A 24v AC supply is supplied to the MCC from the group control panel. In the event of a mains failure a
24v DC supply is provided by the back-up batteries. The MCC supply loop must use suitable cable sizes
(see table below). Fire resistant cabling is not necessary as the system is fail-safe, so if the cable is
damaged the curtain will automatically descend to its operational position. Voltage drop calculations
should be carried out to ensure the required 24v supply is available at each MCC. All wiring should be
done by a qualified electrician using the project specific schematics available on request.
2.5.1 MCC WIRING INSTRUCTIONS
Connect wires from active motor terminal in the MCC unit to the roller motors.
Blue wire = NEGATIVE, Brown wire = POSITIVE
Active MCC
motor
terminal
NEGATIVE
wire from
MCC
RedundantMCC motor
terminal
POSITIVE
wire from
MCC
For Clockwise Curtain Roll When Ascending
Connect wires POSITIVE to POSITIVE, NEGATIVE to NEGATIVE
For Anti-Clockwise Curtain Roll When Ascending
Connect wires POSITIVE to NEGATIVE, NEGATIVE to POSITIVE
18
CAUTION
If the MCC is installed remote from the headbox with the motor cable exposed then the cable
must be protected in a fire rated conduit.
CAUTION
Ensure that the motor cable is connected into the MOTOR + and – terminals in the MCC and NOT
the “SUPPLY IN” Terminals. Incorrect connection will damage the motor.
GCP- MCC LOOP MAX DISTANCES FOR AC / DC RETRACT
- All distances are to the mid point of the loop, with equal load on each side of the loop.
- All terminations should be good electrical joints.
- All cable should be of good quality and routed properly
Cable size
2.5mm
4.0mm
6.0mm
6 Motors
34m
56m
85m
5 Motors
42m
68m
103m
4 Motors
52m
85m
129m
3 Motors
69m
113m
171m
2 Motors
86m
141m
214m
1 Motor
108m
176m
267m
2.6 GROUP CONROL PANEL (1ST FIX)
The GCP power supply relies on natural convection through the case louvers to cool the electronics.
For correct operation the Group Control panel must be mounted vertically allowing a free air clearance
around the case of at least 50mm. The GCP should be mounted indoors in a dry environment free from
water splashes or spillages. All cabling should be routed into the GCP via the 20mm knockouts
provided.
The printed circuit boards contained within the Group Control panel contain static sensitive
components. Suitable precautions should be taken when handling circuit boards. During connection of
any components high voltage test equipment must not be used.
1. Mount the GCP as near as possible to the first curtain motor on the supply loop.
2. Remove the mains input fuse and, if available, connect the 230v AC supply to the mains input
terminals.
3. Remove the 20A output fuse, do not connect the 24v MCC supply loop at this stage.
4. Link out the “Fire Alarm” connection. Do not connect the fire alarm signal at this stage.
WARNING
Do not use high voltage test equipment on either the GCP or MCC’s.
2.7 MAINS ELECTRICAL SUPPLY
A 230v 50Hz, permanent, stable and maintained supply is required before further installation can be
undertaken. It is recommended that the mains supply to the curtains is designated an ESSENTIAL. To
meet the 24 hour standby requirements, the mains supply must be connected to an automatic start
standby generator.
2.8 BOTTOM BAR
1.Pull the fabric fully from the head box
2.Clamp the “T” bar to the bottom of the fabric to aid stability.
3.Determine the drop height of the curtain and mark at each end.
4.Use a chalk line, or laser, to mark the full width of the curtain.
5.Hold the “T” bar flat against the chalk line and fix to the fabric using screws. Ensure that the “T” bar is
gripping the fabric tightly; a loose fit may result in the fabric tearing.
6.Trim of any excess material from under the “T” bar and clip on the polycarbonate cover if used.
7.Where multiple rollers are used to make up continuous curtains the curtain fabric should be overlapped by 200mm - 1000mm depending on the application and drop length. Refer to project specific
drawings for details. The bottom bar should be arranged to clamp both fabrics.
2.9 GROUP CONTROL PANEL (2ND FIX)
1.Turn the key switch to the “Normal” position.
2.Re-insert the MCC Output fuse
3.Connect the back-up batteries ensuring the correct polarity.
4.Insert the mains input fuse, the green “Power On” LED will illuminate.
5.Turn the key switch to the “Test” position. The “Fire Alarm Status Normal” LED will be extinguished.
6.With the key switch still in the “test” position remove the MCC Output fuse and connect MCC supply
cables into the “24v MCC Output” connections.
7.Install the MCC Output fuse and turn the key switch to the “Normal” position. The curtains connected
to the GCP will now retract.
8.Check that all the curtains connected to the GCP are fully retracted.
9.Connect the fire alarm contacts. Activate the fire alarm, all the curtains should descend to their lower
limit position.
10.Reset the fire alarm and all the curtains will retract to their upper limit.
11. Close and secure all Group Control panels.
WARNING
If it is possible that the mains power supply could be interrupted after installation but before the
curtains are required to be fully operational, they should be wedged or strapped in place inside
the headbox to prevent damage to the curtains and back-up batteries.
20
Group Control Panel: Controls and Indicators
LED Indicators
Power on (green)
ON - Mains supply is above 85% of noiminal
OFF- Mains supply is below 80% of nominal
Trouble low battery (yellow)
ON - Battery connected and charge circuit working
FLASHING - Battery charge fault or battery disconnected
Alarm (red)
ON- Fire loop open. Alarm
FLASHING - Manual Test in operation or 2nd Stage of two stage
descent in operation or Delay Drop timer in operation
OFF - Fire loop closed. Normal
Delay reset (blue)
Multi Function GCP only
FLASHING - Delay reset timer in operation
Override (white)
Multi Function GCP only
FLASHING - Override in operation
CPU fault (red)
FLASHING - Main CPU failure
Manual Test Key Switch - The key switch on the GCP has 2 positions:
1. Normal: The curtains will be retracted into the normal operational position. They key can be
removed from the switch.
2. Test: The curtains connected directly to the Group Control Panel & all interlinked curtains descend.
The key cannot be removed.
Test key in ‘Normal’
position
Test key in ‘Test’
position
2.10 CONTROL OPTIONS & ACCESSORIES
2.10.1 GENERAL CONTROL OPTIONS & ACCESSORIES
SMOKE / HEAT DETECTOR
Can be used in place of, or in combination with, the
main fire alarm signal.
Requires a manual reset button.
FUSIBLE LINK / FUSIBLE LINK SWITCH
A fusible link is attahced to the bottom bar of the
curtain. When its temperature surpassess 72O the
curtain is automatically deployed.
A fusible link switch is connected to the GCP to
automatically send a signal to the fire alarm circuit
when a temperature of 72O is surpassed, triggering
the fire alarm.
GCP INTERLINKING
Enables multiple GCP’s to be connected when more than 6 motors are controlled by one alarm
signal, to ensure synchronisation of curtain descent and retraction. Interlinking should be
balanced equally
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2.10.2 STANDARD CONTROL OPTIONS FOR MULTI FUNCTION GCP
MANUAL OVERRIDE
Facility to temporarily raise all the curtains connected
to the GCP after deployment, for emergency egress.
Push buttons can be purchased at an additional cost
to control the override - typically a RED button is used
to CLOSE the curtain, a GREEN button is used to OPEN
the curtain.
TWO STAGE DESCENT & SETTING THE DELAY TIMERS
Programmable timer delay that deploys the curtain in
two stages to allow egress before full deployment of
the curtain.
First stage deployment time from 0 – 20 seconds
followed by a delay of up to 90 seconds before full
deployment.
Requires additional brake motors
INDIVIDUAL OVERRIDE INTERFACE (IOI)
Manual override for an individual curtain on a GCP
loop that contains multiple curtains. The period of
time the curtain remains raised after the IOI is
activated can be controlled from 0 -90 seconds.
2.10.3 ADDITIONAL CONTROL OPTIONS FOR MULTI FUNCTION GCP
AUDIO VISUAL FACILITIES
Audio Visual Unit that activates to warn that the
curtains are descending. Sounder beacons can also be
used.
OBSTRUCTION SENSORS
Can be configured to automatically trigger an alarm if
any object is preventing the curtain from full
deployment.
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3.Maintenance & Troubleshooting
3.1 WEEKLY ROUTINE TEST
The curtains should be tested once per week using the following procedure:
1.Visually inspect the installation. Look for any projection to the walls in the area that the curtain
travels, any obstruction beneath the curtain or any alteration to the ceiling slot through which the
curtain drops.
2.Activate the fire alarm signal and check that the curtain descends to the correct level. Note, there may
be several curtains controlled by the same fire alarm signal and they may not all be visible from one position.
3.Reset the fire alarm signal and check that the curtain rewinds fully back into the headbox.
4.Inspect the curtains again to make sure that the fabric has rolled up correctly and that the bottom bar
has not snagged on any obstacle during retraction. Any faults during rewind may prevent the curtains
from operating correctly when required.
3.2 ANNUAL MAINTENANCE TESTING
WARNING
Only to be carried out by qualified personnel.
1.Carry out a full Weekly Test Procedure.
2.Open the GCP and check the float voltage in the batteries. This should be 27.5v DC with the
mains power supply on.
3.Turn off the mains supply to the group control panel and check that the curtains remain in position
for a period of 4 hours. Should they not do so the battery backup system must be checked and any fault
rectified. The backup batteries should be replaced every 5 years.
4.Operate the fire alarm and check that the curtains descend in a controlled manner. Inspect the curtain
fixings for any sign of damage. This may involve removing the head box cover plates.
5.Restore the mains supply and re set the fire alarm. Check that the curtain retracts satisfactorily.
Any fault during retraction may prevent correct operation of the curtain when it is required.
6.Should the curtain fail to retract correctly, then a further check must be carried out to ensure that the
curtain is not being obstructed or deflected in any way. If the curtain continues to retract incorrectly, contact the installer or approved service agent.
3.3 TROUBLESHOOTING
NOTE
Before consulting the table below, please be sure to check that your curtain is connected to a
power supply and that the power supply is turned on.
Fault Conditions
1.Curtain descends without
warning
a) Fault on the alarm input to group control panel. Check fire alarm
contact is not open circuit.
b) Extended mains failure. Restore the mains to the system. This is a
common fault when other other trades are working on the site.
c) Failure of battery backup. Check the condition of the battery and
measure the voltage. During installation the mains power can be
disconnected for long periods of time, excessive use of the battery
backup may cause premature failure of the cells.
d) Fault on wiring from the control panel. Check wiring for continuity.
Commonly caused by other trades working in ceiling voids. A broken
cable will cause the curtain to descend.
e) The test key has been operated.
2. Curtain fails to descend on
fire alarm or test key
a) Check the bottom bar or curtain fabric is not obstructed.
b) A heavier bottom bar may be required for the curtain to deploy
correctly under gravity.
DO NOT attempt to manually pull the curtain down as this may
cause damage to your curtain.
3. Curtain fails to rise or stops
during ascent
a) Check the curtain has not ‘snagged’ on any obstructions.
4. Curtain descends immediately when the mains power
fails
a) Possible battery or charger unit failure. Replace the battery as
required.
5. 2 stage descent option not
working. Curtain failing to
stop.
a) Check timer switches are set correctly on GCP.
b) Check break connections from GCP-MCC-Motor.
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4.Manufacturing Information
4.1 SITE CONDITIONS
When taking measurements for the curtains prior to manufacturing it is essential that due account is
taken of how the curtain is to be installed and any finishes that are to be applied to the building
structure.
4.2 STRAIGHT SMOKE CURTAINS WITHOUT SIDE GUIDES
For standard smoke curtains without side guides the measured width dimension can be either the
HEADBOX or the FABRIC. The European standard BS EN 12101-1 permits gaps between the building
structure and the edge of the curtain depending upon the drop of the curtain. The permitted gaps are
detailed below;
For curtains up to and including 2 metres drop – 20mm
For curtains from 2 metres drop and up to 6metres drop – 40mm
For curtains over 6 metres drop – 60mm
WARNING
The headbox is always wider than the fabric.
The 20mm edge gap should be regarded as the minimum achievable. Where possible on larger curtains
the larger gaps should be assumed as the fabric can “travel” along the roller in operation and this can
cause snagging between the edge of the fabric and the headbox/roller bracket.
Gaps between the edge of the fabric and the structure can be reduced if the headbox can be extended
above any wall/column cladding although some tolerance must be allowed on long drop curtains to
ensure that the bottom bar does not contact and damage the wall finish.
The orientation of multiple roller headboxes is dependent upon site constraints and the access
requirements to the rollers and Motor Control Circuits for maintenance purposes. Access should always
be made available for maintenance. The main access to the roller mechanisms is from below. To
facilitate this all standard headbox configurations have removable cover plates fitted to the underside.
The drop height of the curtain can be measured either from the top or underside of the headbox. In all
instances it should be stated what the dimension specified refers to.
In multiple roller curtains all rollers must be of an equal length to ensure level deployment and
retraction of the curtain. The standard fabric overlap on multiple roller configurations is 200mm.
4.3 ANGLED SMOKE CURTAINS WITHOUT SIDE GUIDES
Curtain headboxes can be supplied with mitred angles where the curtain has to follow a specific line.
Measurements should be taken following the required line of the curtain fabric including the angle.
The number of rollers required and their orientation will be determined by the width of gaps between
curtains that are acceptable depending on the drop of the curtain.
4.4 FACETTED CURTAINS WITHOUT SIDE GUIDES
Smoke curtains can also be manufactured to fit around circular or irregular shaped voids. For
circular voids the radius of the void to the curtain line is required. The headbox dimensions can then be
calculated to achieve the necessary design intent. For irregular shaped voids it is usually necessary to
computer plot the requirements and manufacture accordingly. The headbox orientation must be known
to enable the gaps between the curtain fabric to be kept to a minimum.
4.5 FIRE CURTAINS & SMOKE CURTAINS WITH SIDE GUIDES
The width of fire or smoke curtains that include side guides can be measured as the headbox length,
which equates to a “back of guide to back of guide dimension”, or alternatively as a “face of guide to
face of guide” dimension, where a clear opening width is required. The standard side guide is 100mm
deep, so the headbox length is simply 200mm longer than the face of guide to face of guide
dimension.
The curtain line is 25mm from the back edge of the headbox, which equates to the centerline of the
side guide. If the guides are installed directly onto the face of a wall the curtain line will therefore be
25mm away from the wall.
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5. Installation Notes
Use these pages to make any additional installation notes you may need for future reference.
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THE LEADING EDGE IN Smoke & Fire Curtains
Office Tel: 0114 251 4703 Email: enquiries@blecurtains.com
Website: www.blesmokeandfirecurtains.com