The Portal – Pressure Differentiation System in a 120-Metre Residential Building in London

As part of the The Portal development in the North Acton district of London, a comprehensive smoke control system was implemented in a 36-storey residential building standing 120 metres tall. The building comprises 350 apartments, communal areas, and spaces for the local community.

SMAY was responsible for the design of the system, while Vent Engineering handled the supply, installation, and commissioning of the installation in the UK. The entire project was carried out in full compliance with applicable British standards.

Scope of SMAY Implementation

The project employed an innovative Pressure Differentiation System, specifically designed for high-rise buildings (over 60 metres), where factors such as the chimney effect are critical.

The delivered solutions included:

• 54 iSWAY units, including 27 specially designed backup units tailored for this project,

• a system completely eliminating the chimney effect in stairwells and elevator shafts,

• a rapid-response system for the lobby areas,

• mechanical air extraction routes from corridors, with additional smoke purification functionality,

• EIS120-class fire dampers and a complete control system,

• a set of pressure differentiation devices compliant with BS EN 12101-6, with the system concept developed in accordance with BS EN 12101-13.

The technology is supported by machine learning algorithms, enabling dynamic adjustment of system parameters to changing conditions.

Project Support Scope

As part of the advisory collaboration, SMAY provided:

• development of the design concept,

• airflow calculations,

• selection of equipment and technical parameters,

• CFD simulations,

• preparation of complete technical documentation.

Project Outcome

The implemented solutions provide effective smoke control, stable evacuation conditions, and full compliance with stringent British standards. The The Portal project serves as an example of a high-rise building implementation where advanced design has been combined with precise execution and the highest standards of fire safety.