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NCA Series 700: The Best Motorised Fire Damper for Data Centre Emergency Power Generators

Posted on - 14th November 2025

How can you prevent the spread of fire and smoke from data centre emergency power generator fires?

In today’s always-on digital world, fire safety in data centres is mission-critical, especially around emergency power generators, where diesel fuel, high-voltage equipment, and heat converge into a high-risk environment. Suppression systems are the frontline defence against fire, but adding prevention and protection measures strengthens your overall fire safety strategy. That’s why the HVC NCA Series 700 Motorised Leakage Rated Fire Damper is a vital component of modern fire protection strategies. With low-leakage performance, rapid motorised response, and fire resistance tested to demanding standards, it offers superior compartmentalisation, isolating generator rooms and protecting adjacent server infrastructure during emergency scenarios.

Fire Risks in Data Centre Emergency Power Generators

Emergency generators are essential for uptime but come with a serious fire risk if not properly managed.

Common Causes of Generator-Related Fires

  • Fuel Leaks & Spills - Leaks from diesel tanks, lines, or fittings can cause flammable vapour build-up in poorly ventilated rooms.
  • Electrical Faults - Overloaded circuits or short circuits in generator controls can trigger ignition.
  • Overheating Equipment - Insufficient cooling or prolonged runtime may lead to thermal stress or ignition of nearby components.
  • Exhaust System Failures - A blocked or deteriorated exhaust system can cause sparks or heat discharge into flammable zones.
  • Lack of Preventive Maintenance - Skipping inspections or part replacements increases the risk of mechanical failure or fire.

Associated Hazards

  • Rapid Fire Spread: Generators often operate in spaces surrounded by flammable materials, lubricants, and storage.
  • Costly Downtime: Backup power failure during a fire can compromise the entire data centre’s operational continuity.
  • Toxic Fumes: Combustion releases harmful smoke that can damage equipment and endanger staff.
  • Regulatory Consequences: Non-compliance with UK fire regulations may result in fines or shutdowns.

Why the NCA Series 700 is the Best Choice for Data Centres

  1. Advanced Fire Protection & Reduced Leakage

This multi-blade damper is ES classified for assured low leakage levels in the event of fire, ideal for generator rooms where containment of fire and smoke in the event of emergency is critical .

  1. Reliable Motorised Operation – But How Does It Work?

The NCA Series 700 is equipped with a Belimo BF series actuator designed for dependable performance in emergency scenarios. During standard operation, the actuator holds the damper blade in the powered open position to maintain unrestricted airflow. In the event of a fire alarm activation or a loss of power, both common in genset environments, the actuator’s spring-return mechanism automatically closes the damper to help prevent the spread of fire and smoke. Once power is restored, the damper reopens automatically to ensure a safe return to normal operation without manual reset.

  1. Fast, Hassle-Free Installation

Surface-mounted with pre-punched fixing points, no backfilling or pattress frames needed. Perfect for time-sensitive data centre projects.

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Nationwide Supply & Support

At HVC Supplies, we deliver data centre-grade fire dampers with expert guidance, quick turnaround, and full UK-wide coverage. Whether you’re retrofitting a backup generator room or building new infrastructure, we’re here to help you stay compliant and protected.

Need Help Protecting Your Generator Rooms?

Protect your data centre with confidence. The NCA Series 700 delivers the performance, compliance, and reliability you need.

Contact HVC Supplies today to discuss your requirements.