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Introducing the next generation Sertus Roof Mechanical Pod™

By Steve Knight
Monday 2nd March, 20265 minute to read

Launching in 2026, the next-generation Sertus Roof Mechanical Pod™ represents a major evolution in rooftop smoke ventilation delivery. Developed around real on-site conditions and real design constraints, it brings faster installation, greater flexibility, improved resilience and confident compliance together in a single, fully engineered smoke ventilation solution – installer-ready and designed for seamless integration into your smoke control system.

This is not a replacement platform or a change in approach. It is the next step in making mechanical smoke extraction simpler to specify, easier to install and more dependable to operate.

Modular by design. Engineered for efficiency.  

At the heart of the new Pod™ is a modular, pre-assembled smoke extract platform designed to arrive installer-ready.

For installers, this significantly reduces on-site complexity and shortens programme time. For specifiers and consultants, it provides a consistent, scalable platform that can be configured to suit a wide range of project requirements.

From high-rise residential to complex mixed-use schemes, the Pod™ is designed to scale with your building and integrate cleanly into your wider smoke control strategy. 

Smarter controls – no PLC required  

The redesigned control panel delivers greater intelligent functionality in a more compact and accessible format.

By removing the requirement for a separate PLC, the system architecture is simplified for both commissioning and ongoing inspection.

Clear LED status indicators provide immediate confirmation of which fan is operating – giving installers and maintenance teams fast, intuitive checks, and providing specifiers with a cleaner, easier-to-audit control layout within the overall smoke control system. 

Reliability engineered into every detail

To strengthen operational resilience and reduce long-term maintenance risk, the next-generation Pod™ introduces a refined hardware and control architecture focused on system continuity.

Key improvements include:

  • intelligently programmed inverters that alternate on every fan start

  • balanced fan run hours to extend component life

  • continuous automatic functional testing

  • simplified internal architecture with fewer potential failure points

The intermediate junction box previously used in fan wiring has also been removed – simplifying installation while improving reliability.

For both installers and asset owners, this delivers a more robust and predictable smoke ventilation solution throughout its operational life. 

Optional ATS Module for power security  

Where dual-supply resilience is required, the Pod™ can be paired with a dedicated Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) module housed in a separate enclosure.

This provides:

  • bypass functionality for primary and secondary supplies

  • BMS-ready status outputs

  • integrated test functions for straightforward verification

The separate enclosure supports clearer segregation of controls, simpler inspection and easier fault-finding – strengthening compliance confidence within the wider smoke control system.

Installation designed to be faster, safer and more adaptable  

On-site adjustable legs: 

  • adjustable from 250–900 mm 

  • quick-release pins for rapid setup 

  • 50 mm connection increments for precise alignment 

This flexibility reduces rework and removes the need for bespoke steelwork on site.

Thermally broken feet with weathering skirt: 

Patented thermally broken feet enable earlier installation in the build programme while maintaining thermal performance. Wind-resistance testing has been validated up to 200 mph. 

Refined roof profile: 

The updated roof geometry improves rainwater management and reduces the risk of standing water, supporting long-term durability and lower maintenance exposure.

For installers, these refinements translate directly into faster installation and safer handling. For specifiers, they provide greater confidence that site conditions can be accommodated without compromising performance or compliance.

Strength tested for real-world demands 

The next-generation Pod™ has been subjected to rigorous structural load testing and has performed to ten times its service load.

This testing supports confidence not only in compliance, but also in real-world durability throughout construction, commissioning and long-term operation. 

Designed to integrate into a fully certified system 

The Pod™ is designed to integrate seamlessly into wider smoke control system architectures.

When combined with the Roof Enviro Module (REM) and Roof Inlet Module (RIM), it forms part of a fully certified mechanical smoke ventilation arrangement, supporting EN12101-3 compliant fan systems and delivering predictable, repeatable performance.

For consultants and designers, this simplifies coordination and specification.
For installers, it reduces interface risk and on-site complexity.

Why the new Pod™ sets a new standard  

The new Sertus Pod™ builds on proven performance with:

  • smarter, more resilient control architecture

  • refined hardware designed for reliability and inspection

  • exceptional installation flexibility

  • a modular platform approach that supports both new-build and retrofit projects

Every enhancement has been engineered to help contractors deliver faster programmes, reduce downtime and maintain long-term compliance confidence.

It is a smarter, simpler and more resilient way to deliver mechanical smoke ventilation – from design, through installation, and into operation. 

Richard White, Commercial Director at Sertus, said:

Smoke ventilation only delivers safety when design, manufacturing and installation all work in harmony. The next-generation Pod™ embodies that principle. Every detail has been engineered to support clearer specification, smoother installation and stronger long-term compliance. It’s a product our customers can trust from day one.

Simon Williams, Associate Technical Installation Director at the FDS Group, said:

The new Sertus Pod™ is a game changer for installers. What used to take us multiple days with traditional fan setups we can now complete in hours – often within a single day. No juggling different suppliers, no coordinating separate components, no on-site headaches. The adjustable legs and modular design make installation faster, cleaner and far more predictable.

Ready to simplify mechanical smoke extraction on your next project?
Speak with our technical specialists about integrating the next-generation Sertus Pod™ into your smoke control system.
About Sertus
Sertus is a UK-based manufacturer of smoke ventilation products, dedicated to safeguarding lives and property through unequivocally compliant, expertly engineered, and reliably manufactured solutions. Driven by our vision to be the UK’s manufacturer of choice for smoke ventilation, we’re setting the standard – leading, not following – with products that combine innovation, performance, and quality. From early-stage design through to post-install support, we partner with contractors, architects, consultants, and developers to deliver smoke ventilation that works – every time.
At Sertus, Make It Simple isn’t just a tagline – it’s our promise. We simplify the complex world of fire safety through intelligent design, clear guidance, and comprehensive support, helping our customers achieve compliant, high-performance buildings with confidence. Learn more at sertus.uk. For media enquiries, contact hello@sertus.uk or call 01483 269999.
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