Back to Glossary
Mechanical / HVACaka: volume damperaka: fire damperaka: smoke damperaka: VAV damper

Damper

In Plain English

A movable blade inside a duct that controls how much air flows through by opening or closing.

Definition

A movable plate or set of blades in a duct or air terminal used to control airflow by varying the opening area. Dampers are used to balance air distribution systems, provide zone control, and isolate portions of the ductwork for fire or smoke control. Types include volume control dampers, fire dampers, smoke dampers, and combination fire/smoke dampers.

Example

The fire-rated shaft penetration requires a UL-listed combination fire/smoke damper with a fusible link and actuator.

Related Terms

Frequently Asked Questions

Need more than definitions?

Get AI-powered bid alerts, automated form filling, and proposal drafting.

Start Free Trial

© 2026 ConstructionBids.ai — A LaderaLabs Product