Computer simulation proves to be a valuable tool for the analysis and prediction of compartment fires. With the proper understanding and software, fire safety professionals can use modeling tools and methods to find answers to many critical questions relating to the prevention, investigation, and reconstruction of compartment fires.
Thoroughly updated and revised, An Introduction to Mathematical Fire Modeling, Second Edition introduces the concepts, software, and techniques of computer-aided mathematical modeling and the software for the analysis and prediction of a variety of compartment fires. Beginning with basic compartment fire theory, the author develops a simple mathematical model that provides an engineering approximation of the time-varying conditions created by fires in an enclosure that may be subject to hot-layer vents.
This is the first book focused on the deterministic computer modeling of compartment fires, and the FIRM model presented is the first fire model to be documented, validated, verified, and evaluated according to ASTM guidelines. The text includes detailed information on the use of the QBASIC software provided on an enclosed CD-ROM.
Introduction
Approaches to Mathematical Fire Modeling
Computer Languages Used for Fire Modeling
INTRODUCTION TO MATHEMATICAL COMPARTMENT FIRE MODELING:
The Fire Compartment
The Fire Flame and Plume
The Hot and Cold Gas Layers
Heat Release Rate of the Fire
Heat Transfer in Enclosure Fires
Generic Compartment Zone Fire Model
ASET-QB: A SIMPLE ROOM FIRE MODEL
Introduction
Formulation of the ASET Equations: Layer Interface Height, Hot-Layer Temperature, Outflow of Lower Layer Gases
Solution of the Differential Equations
The ASET-QB Computer Program: Heat Release Rate, Geometry of the Fire Compartment, Radiative and Total Heat Loss Fractions
Comparison Between ASET-QB and SET-B
Limitations of ASET-QB: The Plume Model, Hot-Layer Venting, Hot-Layer Species Concentrations, Burning in the Hot Layer, Oxygen Starvation, Heat Loss Fraction, Burning Rates
MODIFICATIONS TO ASET-QB
Venting of the Hot Layer:
Oxygen-Limited Burning
Heat Loss Fraction Calculation
Heat Release Rate Predictions
The Prediction of Flashover
The FIRM-QB Model
Introduction
Fire Problem Modeled by FIRM-QB
Technical Description of FIRM-QB
FIRM-QB Program Description
FIRM-QB Data Libraries
FIRM-QB USER'S MANUAL
Introduction
Technical Documentation
Program Description
Installing and Operating FIRM-QB
Program Considerations
Input Data: General Considerations, Specific Considerations for Each Input Variable
External Data Files
System Control Requirements
Output Information
Personnel and Program Requirements
Sample Problems
The FIRM-QB Model as a Design Tool
The FIRM-QB Model as a Hazard Analysis Tool
Restrictions and Limitations
Error Messages
EVALUATION OF THE PREDICTIVE CAPABILITY OF FIRM-QB
Introduction
Predictive Capability of Fire Models: Documentation, Validation, Verification, Evaluation
Predictive Capability of FIRM-QB: Documentation, Validation, Verification, Evaluation, Comparison of FIRM-QB Predictions with Experimental Data
Conclusions
CONCLUSIONS
APPENDICES
Conversion Factors and Constants
Review of Fundamentals of Engineering for Fire Modeling
Installing and Running theSoftware
QBASIC Programmer's Notes
Visual Basic Programs
REFERENCES
Biography
Marc L. Janssens