Door Industry Journal 96 - Autumn 2026 | Strong Developments in Our Fire Panel Range: Introducing the EFP1

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.

Close-up view of EFP1 warning device with text 'WARNING FIRE SHUTTER IN OPERATION' mounted on a wall

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.

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.

  • 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 pre-opening following fire signal
  • Flashing "FIRE SHUTTER 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.

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 resource 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.

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.

www.ellard.co.uk

sales@ellard.co.uk | 0161 945 4561 | www.ellard.co.uk

THE EFP1

FIRE SHUTTER CONTROL PANEL

The EFP1 is a dedicated control solution for fire shutter systems, engineered to deliver dependable performance when it matters most.

  • Audio/ visual warning on fire signal
  • Simple to install & configure
  • Repeater extension panel available
  • Built to meet the standards
Large photograph: red EFP1 warning box mounted on a dark wall beside a partially opened roller shutter with visible fire inside

For further information and technical details, contact Ellard or visit the website above.

QR code with caption 'SCAN ME' linking to the data sheet
ELLARD logo with the tagline 'Motors & Controls for Industrial Doors'