What is the function of curtain boards in a fire scenario?

Curtain boards serve a specific and critical function in managing fire behavior within structures, particularly during a fire incident. Their primary role is to concentrate heat and smoke under automatic roof vents. This design helps to facilitate the removal of heat, smoke, and gases from the building effectively. By directing these elements towards designated areas, it assists in maintaining a safer environment for both occupants and firefighters while also aiding in the development of a controlled smoke movement.

Concentrating heat and smoke assists in maintaining a specific thermal layer, which is crucial for the safe operation of firefighting efforts. This layer helps to create more predictable conditions and may improve visibility, while also potentially limiting fire spread by denying oxygen to areas that could ignite. Effective smoke management is vital in reducing both structural damage and potential exposure to toxic smoke for anyone still inside the building.

The other functions listed, such as filtering smoke, improving building insulation, and preventing fire spread across compartments, do not accurately capture the specific operational role that curtain boards are designed for in a fire scenario. Instead, these options address different aspects of fire safety and building construction that are not directly related to the function of curtain boards.