Staircase Pressurization System Design by EKG M&E Sdn Bhd
In the high-rise commercial and residential towers of Kuala Lumpur and Selangor, the staircase is the only "Safe Zone" during a fire. EKG M&E Sdn Bhd specializes in the design and engineering of Staircase Pressurization Systems, creating a positive pressure shield that prevents toxic smoke from entering escape routes. Our designs are strictly governed by Malaysia Standard MS 1472 and the Uniform Building By-Laws (UBBL).
Core Design Principles
The fundamental goal is to maintain a pressure gradient where the stairwell is at a higher pressure than the fire floor. We focus on three critical engineering benchmarks:
1. The 50 Pascal (Pa) Standard
According to BOMBA requirements, when all fire doors are closed, the system must maintain a minimum differential pressure of 50 Pa. This "Pressure Shield" ensures that if smoke tries to seep through door gaps, the higher internal pressure pushes it back out.
2. Airflow Velocity (Air Curtain Effect)
When occupants open a door to enter the stairwell, the pressure momentarily drops. Our design ensures a minimum airflow velocity of 0.75 m/s to 1.0 m/s through the open doorway. This "piston effect" prevents smoke from "spilling" into the stairs while the door is open.
3. Door Opening Force Limits
Excessive pressure can make heavy fire doors impossible to open for children or the elderly. We calibrate our designs to ensure the force required to open a door never exceeds 110 N. This is achieved through the use of Pressure Relief Dampers (PRDs) or Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs).
Essential System Components
-
High-Static Axial Pressurization Fans:
We utilize fans with Class H motors, typically mounted on the roof or at the ground level, to pump fresh outdoor air into the stairwell shaft.
-
VFD-Driven Control Logic:
We integrate Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) that receive signals from differential pressure sensors. If a door opens and pressure drops, the VFD instantly ramps up the fan speed to maintain the air curtain.
-
Fire-Rated Distribution Ductwork:
To ensure the "clean air" path isn't compromised by the fire itself, all pressurization ducts are constructed from heavy-gauge steel and treated with BS 476-24 compliant fire-rated coatings.
-
Motorized Smoke Dampers & Sensors:
Strategically placed pressure sensors on multiple floors provide real-time feedback to the Smoke Control Panel, ensuring the entire height of the tower is balanced.
Design & Compliance Matrix
| Parameter | UBBL / MS 1472 Requirement | EKG M&E Design Standard |
| Target Pressure | 50 Pa (Doors Closed). | 50 - 55 Pa (Calibrated). |
| Airflow Velocity | Min 0.75 m/s (Door Open). | High-Response VFD Logic. |
| Response Time | Full operation < 60 seconds. | High-speed actuator sync. |
| Max Door Force | 110 N. | Tested with Digital Force Gauge. |
Why Choose EKG M&E Sdn Bhd?
-
HVAC & Clean Air Specialist: We perform Differential Pressure Mapping across every floor. We don't just "install a fan"; we balance the entire building envelope to ensure there are no "pressure leaks" into the ceiling voids.
-
Testing & Commissioning (T&C): We provide the comprehensive reports and Form G/F certifications required for your annual Fire Certificate (FC) renewal.
-
Smoke Visualization Testing: We can perform a professional Hot Smoke Test to provide visual proof to BOMBA that your escape routes remain 100% smoke-free.
