Actuators, Controls & Automatic Operation Flashcards
7 cards from real FSD practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Actuators, Controls & Automatic Operation flashcards as text
What is the purpose of end switches (limit switches) installed on smoke damper actuators?
Answer: To provide position feedback confirming the damper has fully opened or closed
End switches provide position feedback to the fire alarm panel or building automation system, confirming the damper has reached its fully open or fully closed position.
In a pneumatic actuator system for smoke dampers, what provides the operating force to move the damper blades?
Answer: Compressed air from a central air supply
Pneumatic actuators use compressed air from a centralized supply system to provide the force needed to open or close smoke damper blades.
What control component acts as the central hub that receives fire alarm signals and sends commands to smoke damper actuators?
Answer: The Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP)
The Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP) receives signals from smoke detectors and sends activation commands to smoke damper actuators and other life safety devices.
Why is selecting the correct 'torque' rating critical when specifying a damper actuator?
Answer: It ensures the actuator can apply sufficient rotational force to overcome blade resistance under airflow conditions
Torque is the rotational force an actuator exerts on the damper shaft; selecting adequate torque ensures the actuator can overcome airflow resistance and blade friction to achieve full travel.
What does a 'two-position' actuator do in a smoke damper application?
Answer: Moves the damper to either the fully open or fully closed position only
A two-position actuator moves the damper to either the fully open or fully closed position exclusively, which is the required operation mode for smoke dampers in life safety applications.
After a fire alarm event, how are smoke dampers typically reset to restore normal HVAC operation?
Answer: They are manually reset from the fire alarm panel by authorized personnel
Smoke dampers are reset manually from the fire alarm panel by authorized personnel after the all-clear, ensuring trained staff verify conditions before restoring normal operation.
What is the typical supply voltage used to power electric actuators on smoke dampers in commercial building control systems?
Answer: 24V AC/DC or 120V AC
Commercial smoke damper actuators commonly operate on 24V AC/DC (standard for low-voltage control systems) or 120V AC (line voltage), depending on system design and manufacturer specifications.