Strong Developments in Our Fire Panel Range: Introducing the EFP1

Ellard is strengthening its fire safety offering with the launch of the new EFP1 Fire Control Panel, the next generation of controls for fire shutter applications.

Superseding the existing FDCP1, the EFP1 has been developed with direct customer feedback at its core. By listening to installers, understanding the challenges they face and testing the product in real-world applications, we have been able to refine the panel around the needs of the people using it every day.

The result is a solution designed to address genuine customer pain points, while providing greater flexibility, simpler configuration and a comprehensive range of control and monitoring functions.

This customer-led approach reflects Ellard’s wider commitment to product development: listening to the market, testing in the real world and continually improving our solutions to deliver products that work for our customers.

Introducing the EFP1

Designed to operate roller shutter doors fitted with up to a 230V tube motor drive with up to 4Amp load, the EFP1 provides normal operation through a suitable key switch or push button. When a fire signal is received, the panel initiates an audio/visual warning system and signals the door to close.

But the EFP1 isn't simply an update to the existing FDCP1. The new panel has been designed with a focus on flexibility and ease of configuration, giving installers greater control over how the system operates.

Simpler setup. Greater control.

One of the key features of the EFP1 is its straightforward configuration.

Internal DIP switches allow installers to select a range of operating functions directly from the panel, including dead-man control, motor rotation correction and how the door responds to a fire signal. Settings also include automatic re-opening following removal of a fire signal and audible fault warnings.

Internal DIP switches allow installers to select a range of operating functions directly from the panel, including dead-man control, motor rotation correction and how the door responds to a fire signal. Settings also include automatic re-opening following removal of a fire signal and audible fault warnings.

The panel also provides greater control over motor and warning timings.

Installers can select from 10 preset motor run times between 0 and 120 seconds, while a further 10 preset audio/visual warning delay times between 0 and 180 seconds can be configured using the onboard switches. Neither requires additional wiring.

This means key operating parameters can be configured quickly and easily to suit the installation, without adding unnecessary complexity to the setup process.

Designed with the installer in mind

The EFP1 has been developed not just to control the door, but to provide clear information about what is happening within the system.

Features include:

• Internal status LED indication

• Audio/ visual fault warnings

• On-board PCB buttons to aid with installation

• Emergency retract button input

• Switched auxiliary relay output

• Automatic re-opening following fire signal reset

• Flashing “FIRE DOOR IN OPERATION” warning sign

• Multifunctional red front-panel diagnostic indicator

• Optional repeater extension panel for remote indication

  
  

The result is a control panel that combines everyday operation with the monitoring and warning functions required when the system is responding to a fire signal.

The EFP1 also features a 100 dB sounder, an IP54-rated enclosure and a specified working temperature range of -10°C to +55°C.

The next generation of fire shutter control

With the EFP1, Ellard is bringing a more configurable approach to fire shutter control, giving installers greater control over setup while keeping the set-up experience quick, simple and pain-free.

As the successor to the FDCP1, it represents the latest stage in the development of Ellard’s fire control offering, but, importantly, it also reflects something bigger happening within the business.

A growing focus on fire safety R&D

The development of the EFP1 is part of a wider investment in research and development at Ellard, as we continue to explore new technologies, applications and solutions across the fire safety market.

Fire safety is becoming an increasingly important area of focus for us, and we are investing significant time and resources into understanding the challenges faced by the industry and developing products to meet them.

And there is something particularly significant on the horizon.

We can't reveal the details just yet, but a major new development in Ellard’s involvement in the fire safety market is imminent.

The EFP1 is an important step forward. What comes next will take our involvement in fire safety another significant step further.

A new chapter is beginning

The launch of the EFP1 marks more than the replacement of an existing control panel. It represents Ellard’s growing commitment to the fire safety sector and our ambition to develop solutions that combine reliable motor control with practical, installer-focused functionality.

With easier configuration, flexible operating settings, comprehensive monitoring and a range of additional control functions, the EFP1 is designed to give installers a more capable solution for fire shutter applications.

And with Ellard’s increased focus on fire safety R&D, this is only the beginning.

Interested in finding out more about the EFP1?

Speak to the Ellard team today to discuss the new Fire Control Panel, its features and how it could support your next fire shutter application.