According to
NFPA 80A, the key difference between a fire damper and a smoke damper lies in their function and purpose within building protection systems:
A fire damper is designed to prevent the spread of flame and heat through ductwork that penetrates fire-rated barriers (such as walls and floors). It automatically closes when exposed to high temperatures, typically activated by a fusible link that melts during a fire.
A smoke damper, on the other hand, is intended to prevent the movement of smoke through HVAC systems and openings in smoke-rated barriers. These dampers are usually connected to a smoke detection or fire alarm system and are motor-operated to close upon detection of smoke.
In many cases, especially where both fire and smoke protection are required, a combination fire/smoke damper is used.
For a deeper understanding of these systems and to get your copy of the NFPA 80A book, visit kukubooks.com — your trusted source for fire safety codes, engineering standards, and technical references.
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