Fire dampers are activated how?

• A. By a fusible link
• B. By fusible links
• C. By manual activation
• D. By electrical signal

Answer: (B)

Fire dampers are designed to close automatically when heat is present in a fire. The mechanism relies on fusible links placed in the damper assembly. When the surrounding temperature reaches the specified rating, the links melt, releasing the damper’s spring-loaded or gravity-driven blades to shut the damper and block the duct. Using multiple fusible links (plural) provides reliable actuation and ensures the damper closes even if one link fails. Manual activation isn’t relied on in a fire because it depends on someone being present to operate it, which isn’t practical during an emergency. Relying on an electrical signal would require power and a control system, which can be compromised in a fire, whereas fusible links automatically trigger without power. So the standard, reliable activation method is fusible links.