Koneba, a specialist in Smoke and Heat Exhaust Ventilation (SHEV), has successfully completed the installation of its Kortex DA Automatic smoke curtains and Kuadron Slat louvre smoke vents in the atrium of the Catholic University of Valencia.
Automatic smoke curtains remain hidden in a registrable box until they are activated, which facilitates their aesthetic integration into the building. Meanwhile, polycarbonate slat vents not only ensure the effective evacuation of smoke and hot gases in the event of a fire, but also serve a dual purpose in the day-to-day use of the building: they allow for daily ventilation and provide a large amount of natural light to the interior. This optimises both safety and environmental comfort, improving the habitability and energy efficiency of the space.
The Catholic University of Valencia is an academic institution characterised by its humanistic vocation and its commitment to the comprehensive education of its students. Founded in 2003, it offers a wide variety of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees and research programmes. Its educational model promotes both professional training and the personal and spiritual growth of its students, in a friendly environment committed to society.
Smoke and Heat Exhaust Ventilation (SHEV) systems in buildings with atriums
Natural smoke evacuation in buildings with atriums is based on the buoyancy of hot gases generated by a fire, which rise to the top and are expelled through exhaust vents or aerators located on the roof. This process, in addition to keeping lower areas smoke-free, facilitates the evacuation of occupants and improves conditions for emergency teams to intervene. To ensure its effectiveness, the design must comply with the provisions of standard UNE 23585:2017, which establishes the criteria for the calculation, dimensioning and verification of SHEV systems.
A fundamental element in this type of building is smoke curtains, which act as barriers to prevent smoke from spreading to other floors. These curtains prevent smoke from dispersing throughout the atrium and ensure that it is channelled in a controlled manner towards the roof vents. This improves the efficiency of the natural evacuation system, increases occupant safety and optimises response time in emergency situations.
