SVL

Commercial HVAC

SVL News

UL 864 Stairwell Pressurization Solutions for Enhanced Building Protection: Optimizing Safety and Compliance

← Back to News

SVL hosted an engaging Coffee Break Webinar featuring Scott Blackmon, National Sales Manager for RM Manifold. With over 18 years of experience in the HVAC industry, Scott specializes in draft control systems for boilers, commercial laundry facilities, multi-story buildings, and stairwell pressurization systems. Participants were treated to an in-depth discussion on innovative solutions for life safety in building designs.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE PRESENTATION

Introduction to Stairwell Pressurization

Scott began the webinar by outlining the critical role of stairwell pressurization in life safety systems. The primary goal is to create a tenable environment in stairwells during fire emergencies, allowing occupants to safely evacuate by preventing smoke infiltration. Stairwell pressurization systems achieve this by maintaining positive pressure with clean air, ensuring smoke is pushed back into corridors rather than into stairwells.

Scott traced the origins of modern pressurization standards to past tragedies, such as the 1980 MGM Grand Fire and the Bronx high-rise fire in 2022. These incidents underscored the deadly effects of smoke migration, which led to overhauls in building codes and safety systems.

Challenges in Smoke Control

Two major factors influence smoke and fire movement within buildings: stack effect and fire-induced pressure. Stack effect refers to the natural movement of air due to temperature differences, which can vary significantly between seasons or building locations. Fire-induced pressure, on the other hand, can increase dramatically on the fire floor, complicating smoke control.

Scott also addressed the importance of designing systems to handle scenarios like reverse stack effect, common in hot climates, and emphasized the necessity of considering seasonal variations during system commissioning.

Design Standards and Codes

Scott reviewed the primary codes and standards influencing stairwell pressurization design, including:

  • ASHRAE Handbook
  • NFPA 92
  • UL 864
  • IBC 909

Notably, the International Building Code (IBC) now mandates compliance with UL 864 for pressurization systems, ensuring robust and reliable operation during emergencies.

LF Systems’ ACSP SolutionLFsystems Stairwell Pressurizer controls

Scott introduced LF Systems’ Active Compensated Stairwell Pressurization System (ACSP), a groundbreaking UL 864-listed plug-and-play package. This system is designed to simplify pressurization projects for engineers and contractors while ensuring top-tier safety and performance.

Key features of the ACSP include:

  • UL 864-Listed Components: Ensuring compliance with the latest codes and standards.
  • Integrated Controls: The system includes an L864 controller, pressure transducers, VFD for fans, and actuators for relief dampers if needed.
  • Rapid Modulation: The system uses fast-acting actuators with two-second response times, coupled with VFDs, to maintain precise pressure control in real time.
  • Full Engineering Support: LF Systems provides custom wiring diagrams, operational plans, and design assistance tailored to specific projects.

The ACSP can be used with any smoke-rated fan on the market, offering designers flexibility and eliminating the need for complex sequences of operation.

Advanced Applications

For taller buildings, Scott discussed the Advanced System option. This setup includes additional controllers and modulating dampers to zone the stairwell into manageable sections, ensuring consistent pressure across all levels. This modular design makes it suitable for high-rise structures exceeding 100 feet.

ADDITIONAL KEY INSIGHTS

The Importance of UL864 Certification

Building owners should insist on UL864 certification to avoid any technical inaccuracies. This certification enhances the reliability of fire protection, demonstrates a commitment to safety, and can lead to compliance with local codes, lower insurance premiums, and increased property value. Prioritizing UL864 certification is an investment in both safety and peace of mind.

The UL864-listed Smoke Control System is used to maintain user-configurable pressure in a stairway or other multi-zoned area. The L864 system compares pressures across multiple zones and controls a listed stairwell pressurization fan as well as an optional relief damper to maintain the user-determined range. This is a key component of the Active Compensated Stairwell Pressurization (Advanced ACSP) System.

Common Design Considerations and Cautions

Scott shared practical tips to avoid common pitfalls:

  1. Avoid Non-Compensated Systems: These systems cannot adjust for seasonal or fire-related pressure variations, compromising their effectiveness.
  2. Oversize Fans Slightly: Undersized fans can exacerbate safety risks, while oversized fans can be adjusted with VFDs.
  3. Adhere to UL 864 Listings: Ensure all components and designs comply with UL 864 to meet IBC 2018 and beyond requirements.

Q&A Highlights

During the Q&A, Scott addressed several key questions:

  • Fan Sizing: Fan selection remains the responsibility of the mechanical engineer or manufacturer, such as Cook.
  • Controller Placement: Controllers are best located near the fireman’s control station for ease of access and oversight.
  • System Integration: The system ties directly into the fire alarm’s FSCS, providing seamless activation during emergencies.

Conclusion

Scott Blackmon’s presentation offered valuable insights into the complexities of stairwell pressurization and how LF Systems’ ACSP is revolutionizing safety and design efficiency. With its innovative features and engineering support, the ACSP is set to become a go-to solution for life safety systems in modern buildings.

If you’d like to stay updated on the latest HVAC technologies, be sure to join us for our upcoming SVL Coffee Break Webinars. Reach out to your SVL Sales Engineer for an invite to our future sessions.

RM Manifold – The Industry Standard.

Learn More About RM Manifold
Contact Us

Contact Us

    Reason for Contacting

    Get in TouchBillingEventsTraining/SeminarLiterature/Graphics/LogosEngineering ProjectsOther



    This will close in 0 seconds

    Parts Inquiry



      This will close in 0 seconds

      Equipment Inquiry



        This will close in 0 seconds

        Shipping Date/IOM Manuals/Wiring Diagrams Request



          This will close in 0 seconds

          Question for Sales Engineers



            This will close in 0 seconds

            Service Contact



              This will close in 0 seconds

              Aftermarket Parts




                This will close in 0 seconds

                General Job Application




                  This will close in 0 seconds

                  Hydronics Contact Form



                    This will close in 0 seconds

                    Viral Mitigation Contact Form



                      This will close in 0 seconds

                      Jim Lubratt

                      President & Chief Executive Officer

                      Jim Lubratt has been president of SVL since 2006. He first joined the company as a sales engineer in 1992 and was made a partner in 2000. He holds a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from Southern Methodist University and first entered the HVAC industry as a marketing engineer for a heat pump manufacturer in Texas.

                      In addition to his role at SVL, Jim is vice president of AQC Industries, LLC, a manufacturer of specialized underground ductwork systems. He is also an investor and board member for Hydromx, Inc., a manufacturer of heat transfer nanofluids, and Crotega, Inc., creators of personal and building security solutions.

                      Jim and his wife, Tracy, met in college and married in 1993. They have three children, two of whom have graduated college in Texas, while their youngest is attending Grand Canyon University in Arizona.

                      Outside of work, Jim places a priority on his faith, family, friends, and fitness. He enjoys helping people-supporting charities, time with his wife and kids, road-biking with friends and efforts to stay physically fit.

                      A message from Jim on the achievements of SVL

                      SVL started in February 1967 by Charlie Schwab and Craig Vollhaber. Schwab-Vollhaber, Inc. (as it was named at the time) steadily grew and, in 1985, welcomed Paul Lubratt as another partner, becoming Schwab-Vollhaber-Lubratt, Inc. SVL’s founders had the determination to build the most talented, customer-focused HVAC representative in the Midwest. Our original drive and passion still shape the company and culture to this day. The achievements of an organization are the results of the combined efforts of every individual. From humble beginnings, SVL founders paved the way to industry success with hard work and determination. “Today, SVL is strongly organized with great people to lead our industry forward as we are challenged with fast-paced changes to reduce our environmental impact,” says Jim. Now, 55+ years later, SVL is under the leadership of two new principals who share the same vision and drive that has propelled SVL throughout the years. Built on a foundation of integrity, Jim Lubratt, and Charlie Vollhaber strive to ensure opportunities for personal growth, improved work environment, and shared life enrichment. The achievements of our organization are the results of the combined efforts of every individual.

                      This will close in 0 seconds

                      Charlie Vollhaber

                      Executive Vice President & Officer

                      Charlie Vollhaber is a third-generation employee at SVL, as a grandson of company co-founder Craig Vollhaber and son of former CEO Todd Vollhaber. Charlie holds a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering and an MBA, both from the University of Minnesota. He became an outside salesman for SVL in 2013, was made a partner in 2019, and then executive vice president and officer in 2022.

                      He grew up playing sports, including football, basketball, golf, and track, and enjoys the competitive nature of the HVAC industry. “I like that no two days are ever the same as there are always questions to answer and problems to solve,” he says. “Most of all, I enjoy working with great people and coordinating together on challenging projects to achieve positive results together.”

                      Outside of work, Charlie enjoys spending time with his wife, Lesley, and their three boys. He’s also fond of golfing, traveling, and attending concerts and sporting events. One of his favorite quotes is from the book of Philippians: “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count other more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” Because HVAC and construction is such a team effort, he says, “this mindset helps to create positive results in a vast majority of situations.”

                      A message from Charlie on the culture of SVL

                      “At SVL, we strive to cultivate a unique culture that revolves around finding and empowering exceptional individuals. We believe in equipping our team members with the right tools and resources to succeed.

                      As we’ve grown the business, we have deliberately maintained a small firm culture, fostering an environment where collaboration thrives. We encourage open dialogue and promote a sense of comfort among our employees, allowing anyone to ask questions and seek guidance from anyone else, regardless of their level within the organization.

                      We foster a workshop-like atmosphere where everyone’s contribution is valued. Presenting your work to another individual or a group of teammates provides a platform for collaboration, where ideas are shared, dissected, and improved collectively. We firmly believe in the power of mentoring and provide various avenues for both formal and informal guidance. Whether it’s through structured training programs or casual conversations, we encourage team members to discuss a wide range of topics, from work-related successes or issues to everyday personal life topics.

                      In summary, our culture is built on the foundation of attracting exceptional individuals, empowering them with the necessary tools, and fostering a collaborative environment where mentorship and growth thrive. We are committed to creating an atmosphere where every team member feels supported, valued, and encouraged to reach their fullest potential.”

                      This will close in 0 seconds

                      Al Gramse

                      Vice President of SVL Service Corporation

                      Al Gramse has been in the HVAC industry for over 30 years. He began as a service technician.  Then over his career worked in technical support, building automation, then service manager prior to his current role.

                      How did Al end up in the HVAC industry?  “After high school, I took a couple years to figure out what I wanted to do.   Where I was working at the time, a grumpy old coworker, who I didn’t get along with, walked up to me and said ‘What are you doing here?  Go back to school.’”  I said, “For what?”  He said “There’s a tech school down the street.  Go down there and pick something that interests you”. Then he walked away.  That weird interaction, with someone I didn’t get along with, sent me down a 30-year path in the HVAC industry.   Never underestimate the potential of a little encouragement.   Even if it is from a strange source.

                      Al has been with SVL for 15 years and is the head of our SVL Service division. “The people here are some of the best in the industry,” Al says. “A bunch of team-oriented, knowledgeable, go-getters.” His personal mantra is “figure it out,” “Do a little fact-finding on your own. Use your own brain before you use someone else’s. But know when to ask for help.” he prescribes. “It’s amazing what you can accomplish on your own if you dig in a little bit.”

                      Outside of work, Al has lots of outdoor hobbies, including hunting, fishing, and motorcycling, though his favorite pastime is simply hanging out with family.

                      This will close in 0 seconds

                      Jennifer Roach

                      Director of Marketing, Events & Administration

                      More than just a creative director, Jen brings 30 years of marketing and leadership magic to SVL. Her journey began in the trenches of graphic design, quickly evolving into crafting eye-catching campaigns for iconic brands like Target, Gabberts, Gander Mountain and Camping World. As a seasoned director and agency veteran, she honed her skills with recreational vehicle giant Parts Unlimited before leading creative teams at HOM Furniture and, ultimately, landing at SVL during a crucial growth phase.

                      Jen thrives on "servant-leadership," empowering her team and fostering a culture of trust and mutual respect. "It unlocks their potential, fuels creativity, and leads to work we're all proud of," she says. "I want my team to care, collaborate, and push boundaries together."

                      When not shaping impactful campaigns, Jen enjoys weekend adventures with her husband, Scott, and son, Crew. Their lives are a tapestry of shared passions, from bike rides and baking experiments to cheering on Simley High School wrestlers. And with her recently built forever home in Cottage Grove, her free time now includes a new, thrilling chapter: weekend renovation warrior!

                      This will close in 0 seconds