Mechanical Smoke Ventilation for a 26,000 m² Warehouse

Curvent Delivers a Life-Safety Solution at SEW Headquarters, Aeroton

Curvent has successfully supplied and installed a mechanical smoke ventilation system at the SEW Headquarters, a 26,000 m² industrial warehouse located in Aeroton.This project was designed to enhance life safety, support fire compliance, and ensure effective smoke control within a large-volume industrial environment.

Project Overview

Large warehouses present unique fire-safety challenges. High roof levels, extensive floor areas, and stored goods can allow smoke to spread rapidly if not properly managed. The objective of this project was to implement a robust mechanical smoke extraction system that would:

• Control smoke movement during a fire

• Maintain clearer escape routes for occupants

• Support firefighting operations

• Protect critical infrastructure and assets

Scope of Work

Curvent’s scope covered the design supply and installation of a fully integrated mechanical smoke ventilation solution, including:

• Mechanical Smoke Extraction FansHigh-capacity fans were installed to actively remove smoke from the building, ensuring rapid extraction and controlled smoke layer formation.

• Curvent Fire-X Vertical Louvres (Low-Level Make-Up Air)The Fire-X Vertical Louvres were installed at low level to introduce controlled make-up air. This is essential for mechanical smoke extraction systems, as it replaces extracted air and drives smoke upward and outward efficiently.

• Smoke Baffles to Create Smoke ZonesSmoke baffles were strategically positioned to divide the warehouse into defined smoke zones. This limits smoke spread, improves system efficiency, and ensures predictable smoke behaviour in line with fire engineering principles.

  
  

Engineering for Performance and Compliance

The system was engineered to work as an integrated whole—fans, make-up air, and smoke zoning operating together to deliver reliable performance under fire conditions. By combining mechanical extraction with controlled low-level air intake and smoke compartmentation, the solution provides a higher level of control than natural ventilation alone, particularly in large industrial spaces.

Project Outcome

The completed installation delivers:

• Improved life safety for building occupants

• Enhanced visibility and tenability during a fire event

• Better conditions for firefighting intervention

• A durable, industrial-grade smoke ventilation solution aligned with modern fire safety requirements

  
  

This project once again demonstrates Curvent’s capability to deliver engineered smoke ventilation solutions for complex, large-scale industrial facilities.

About Curvent

Curvent specialises in the design, manufacture, and installation of smoke and heat ventilation systems for industrial, commercial, and logistics facilities across Southern Africa. With a strong focus on quality, compliance, and engineering excellence, Curvent continues to support safer buildings through proven smoke control solutions.

Engineered Smoke & Heat Ventilation Solutions.