Could anyone enlighten me on the purpose of "draft curtains" where mentioned in NFPA 409 (Standard on Aircraft Hangars)?
In particular in the context of sprinkler protection; paragraph A.5.17.3 clearly states that the reason for limiting a draft curtain area to 7,500 sqft (697 m2) is to improve detection and sprinkler response times...." Am I right to assume that the intention is to prevent heat from a fire event from being distributed away from sprinklers above? Would I also be right to say the same thing would apply to smoke from a fire (in respect to fire detection)? Many thanks in advance. Sent in anonymously for discussion. Click Title to View | Submit Your Question | Subscribe
8 Comments
Casey Milhorn
2/15/2022 08:15:49 am
Not an expert on 409 by any stretch, but my understanding is this has more to do with detection. I know there have been some new advances in detection that may help avoid the need for draft curtains and reduce cost dramatically. Again, not my area of expertise, just passing on what I've heard. Others with more experience will have a lot more to say I'm sure. Great question!
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Alex
2/15/2022 08:23:21 am
Same boat as Casey, not familiar with NFPA 409.
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Jesse
2/15/2022 09:41:50 am
I've had several 409 projects in the past (been a few years though), and if memory serves; draft curtains are only used in Group 1 hangars, and to separate 40,000 sq. ft. fire areas.
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Phil Watkins
2/18/2022 03:49:52 am
Many thanks, and yes it is a Group 1 Hangar
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CJ Bonczyk
2/15/2022 09:52:51 am
In § A 5.17.3 regarding the limitations to improve detection and sprinkler response times, and not to limit fire suppression system size.
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Phil Watkins
2/18/2022 03:50:50 am
Many thanks for the reply.
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Anonymous
2/25/2022 04:15:41 am
Foam Test
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1/17/2024 07:44:39 pm
I am very familiar with NFPA 409 in regards to draft curtains. My company manufactures and installs a proprietary draft curtain system all over the United States and abroad (www.draftcurtains.com). I am the owner and founder of the business and we discuss NFPA 409 daily with Fire Protection Engineers, facility owners and General Contractors on a daily basis. If I can help in any way please reach out!
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