System components for preventive fire protection

Fire safety is an important issue in the construction industry. Especially in recent years, as higher and higher buildings are being built. "Fire safety is a subject that should already be taken into account at the drawing board," knows Marc van Oijen, Architectural Advisor at GU Netherlands. "This is because not only the government, but also users and companies are making increasingly higher demands. GU has a wide range of system components that respond to this and are perfectly matched. From motorized chain and spindle drives to door operators."

Gretsch-Unitas, better known as GU, is a leading supplier in window and door technology, automatic access systems and building management systems. The GU group manufactures and distributes, among others, building hardware, locks and locking and access control systems of the brands GU, GU automatic, FERCO, GEMOS and BKS. The product range also includes an extensive range of RWA components for safe smoke and heat extraction in case of fire.

Intelligent RWA system

"The smoke released during a fire poses the greatest threat to a building's occupants," Van Oijen knows. "That is why it is very important that the smoke is exhausted as quickly as possible. Our intelligent smoke and heat extraction systems (RWA systems) ensure the rapid removal of combustion gases, hazardous oxides and thermal energy. This keeps escape and rescue routes virtually smoke-free."

RWA central control unit

GU's RWA central control unit ensures that the systems also work together seamlessly in case of fire. Here, the LED display provides clear status messages, says Van Oijen. "As soon as necessary, windows, doors, smoke vents and skylights are opened or closed. This is done by means of an electromechanical actuator."

Tested safety

In natural smoke and heat extraction systems, windows and doors are tested and certified together with the operator as one unit. This is done according to the EN 12101-2 standardization. GU offers RWA/NSHEV solutions with tested, certified components. Both for wooden, plastic and aluminum facade elements, from leading profile houses and suitable for different types of openings.

Ventilation with RWA systems

RWA systems are not only suitable for smoke extraction in case of fire, but can also be used for daily ventilation. The ventilation function is operated via a ventilation push button, rain/wind sensor or timer. In emergency situations, the ventilation function is activated automatically.

Unique Inspiration Magazine

GU Netherlands' RWA and other systems can be found, among other things, in the GU Inspiration Magazine, which is specially developed for architects and planners and offers a wealth of information, ideas and inspiration. "The Inspiration Magazine is more than just a publication," Van Oijen emphasizes. "It contains both product and system information, case studies and interviews that offer insights into the latest trends and technologies in architecture and access control systems. But also successful projects, in which GU's solutions have contributed to innovative and sustainable building solutions. This makes Inspiration Magazine a comprehensive source of inspiration and innovation and indispensable on the desk of architects and planners."