Comparison of CFD modelling with fire tests, Comparison of CFD modelling with results of full scale compartment fire tests in a residential unit

Authors

  • Robert Sekret
  • Damian Saleta
  • Grzegorz Sztarbala
  • Piotr Smardz

Abstract

Two full-scale fire tests were carried out in a derelict apartment block in Bytom (Poland).  The primary objective of the tests was to investigate gas temperatures and toxicity conditions during compartment fires in residential units which underwent energy-efficiency improvement works. Such units are typically better sealed and better insulated, in order to reduce heat losses through gaps in the doors, windows and walls. During the tests detailed temperature measurements were collected for both the well-sealed compartment scenario and the benchmark test with included a defined amount of openings in the fire compartment. As a supplementary activity to the main topic of the research it was decided to carry out a-priori and a-posteriori modelling of the thermal conditions within the compartment, using a CFD software package called Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS). The main purpose was to validate the software for modelling of under-ventilated fires, as the reliability of CFD models in this application is often questioned. The results of the comparison are herewith discussed.

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Published

2015-10-15