Unit 5, Eurotech Park · Plymouth PL5 3FR Open Mon–Fri · 08:00–16:30 Call 01752 659415 24/7 emergency response for contracted clients BAFE - NICEIC - IFC - Safe Contractor Unit 5, Eurotech Park · Plymouth PL5 3FR Open Mon–Fri · 08:00–16:30 Call 01752 659415 24/7 emergency response for contracted clients BAFE · NICEIC · SMAS accredited

Smoke Vent Actuators

Window Automation Smoke Vent Controls

We supply and install smoke vent actuators for AOV and natural smoke ventilation systems, selected to suit the window, opening arrangement and system requirements. From individual windows and rooflights to larger commercial installations, we provide the right solution for the application.

WALL / CURTAIN WALLING BLEC Top-hung glazed vent leaf, open Extending chain drives leaf open Chain actuator (fixed to frame) Fixed window frame 24V DC cable to control panel
AOV & Smoke Ventilation · Window Automation

What every BLEC smoke acquators delivers

Our engineers can manage the actuator installation, control integration, commissioning and ongoing maintenance as part of the wider smoke ventilation service.

What We Do

What is a smoke vent actuators?

A smoke vent actuator is an electrically powered opening mechanism used to operate a window or ventilator within a smoke control system. Depending on the application, actuators can use chain, folding arm or rack and pinion mechanisms.

The actuator is selected according to factors such as the window configuration, required opening position, available space, opening force and system design.

What BLEC smoke vent acquator does

A smoke vent actuator is the electric drive that opens and closes a window, rooflight or other ventilator as part of a smoke ventilation system. The actuator provides the mechanical movement, while the control system manages when and how the equipment operates.

We supply and install actuators for new AOV and smoke ventilation systems, replacement projects and existing installations where compatible equipment is required.

How a smoke vent actuator works

Control system sends command Actuator moves vent Vent reaches required position System status is checked

Product types

Smoke vent actuator types

We supply and install actuator solutions for a range of AOV and smoke ventilation applications, with selection based on the individual window or ventilator and overall system requirements.

Chain actuators

Compact linear actuators using a chain mechanism to operate suitable windows and ventilators. Suitable for:

Folding arm actuators

Articulated actuators designed for window and ventilator applications where the opening geometry or required force makes an arm mechanism suitable.

Rack and pinion actuators

Linear actuators using a geared rack and pinion mechanism for applications requiring controlled movement and higher operating forces.

Why BLEC

Specified for the complete system

An actuator should not be selected in isolation. The window or ventilator, actuator, controls and required system performance all need to work together. 

Matched to the application

We consider the window configuration, opening arrangement and required actuator performance when specifying equipment.

Integrated with the control system

Actuators are connected to the smoke ventilation control system and commissioned as part of the overall installation.

Supplied and installed by BLEC

Our engineers can manage the actuator installation, control integration, commissioning and ongoing maintenance as part of the wider smoke ventilation service.

Common Questions

Smoke Vent Acquators FAQs

BLEC provides AOV and smoke ventilation services across the UK, supported by directly employed engineers and third-party certification for smoke control work.

Need help with smoke vent acquators?

Not sure which actuator is suitable? We can assess the existing window or ventilator and specify the appropriate actuator for the application.

It depends on the window or ventilator, opening arrangement, required stroke and thrust, available space and overall system design. We can assess these requirements and specify the appropriate actuator.

Compatibility depends on the existing control panel, actuator requirements, wiring and system design. We can assess the existing installation before specifying replacement or additional equipment.

The three mechanisms provide different forms of movement and are suited to different window configurations and operating requirements. Chain actuators provide linear chain movement, folding arm actuators use an articulated arm, and rack and pinion actuators use a geared linear mechanism.

Some systems are designed to provide both smoke ventilation and day-to-day ventilation. Whether this is possible depends on the actuator, controls and overall system design.

Yes. We can assess existing AOV and smoke ventilation equipment and specify compatible replacement actuators where suitable.