In stock in Hamburg, shipping within 24 hoursTrade terms
In stock in HamburgShips within 24 hours
Bracket set included for VS-KA, VS-LA and VS-ZAShipping from €3.50 netFrom stock in Hamburg: stock items shipped within 24 h1 % discount for bank transfer

Smoke and heat extraction (SHEV): why high-quality drives are critical in the event of a fire

Dietmar Heiken

90° RWA opening with rack-and-pinion drives

A functioning smoke and heat extraction system is essential to remove dangerous smoke layers in the event of a fire and to keep escape routes passable. Electrical Window drives They play a central role here: They open affected windows or skylights automatically and reliably – even under high load.

In brief: In a smoke and heat exhaust system, the window actuators open the smoke vents in the event of fire – quickly, reliably and even against wind and snow load. That is why sufficient force, robust technology and regular maintenance matter for RWA actuators.

High-quality actuators are more than just mechanics. They must meet clear safety standards and withstand a high number of load cycles. Our models achieve at least 10,000 double strokes under maximum load and are therefore ideally prepared for regular everyday use and emergencies.

A coordinated combination of drive, control system, and sensors creates comprehensive smoke and heat exhaust ventilation (SHEV) solutions that offer planning reliability to tradespeople and construction companies. Thanks to our own stock in Hamburg, many common models can be delivered at short notice – a major advantage for time-critical projects.

Suitable products: VS-ZA 800 rack-and-pinion actuator (800 N), VS-LA linear actuator (600–5000 N) and VS-KA chain actuator (250–1500 N). You can find an overview of all drives in the Vent Systems Shop.

The maintenance and inspection obligations for smoke and heat exhaust systems are explained in the guide SHEV maintenance and inspection duties.

An overview of suitable actuators can be found at Smoke and heat exhaust ventilation (SHEV) drives for windows and skylights.

Read more: Smoke Vent in the Stairwell: Requirements, Opening Size and Operation

Author: Dietmar Heiken, Vent Systems HDI GmbH, Hamburg – more than 20 years of experience with electric window actuators, ventilation and sun protection drives. Last updated: 26.10.2026
Questions? 040 50694631 · info@ventsystems.de

About the author: Dietmar Heiken

Dietmar Heiken is responsible for sales and technical advice at Vent Systems HDI GmbH in Hamburg. He has around 20 years of experience with electric window actuators for ventilation and smoke and heat exhaust ventilation (SHEV).

Frequently asked questions

Which force does a chain actuator need on a roof window?

More than on the façade: on a roof window the actuator lifts almost the entire sash weight, plus snow and wind loads. Plan for a clear force reserve. Find the right value with the window actuator calculator.

Does an electric roof window need a rain sensor?

Yes, this is strongly recommended. The rain sensor closes the window automatically as soon as it starts to rain – even when nobody is at home.

Chain actuator or spindle actuator for roof windows?

Chain actuators are compact and suit normal roof windows. For heavy rooflight domes or large sashes, a linear or spindle actuator is often the better choice.

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