Scale modeling of fires with emphasis on room flashover phenomenon

The difficulties associated in predicting fire behavior by numerical techniques necessitates the use of experimentally determined values. Lower cost and convenience in conducting small-scale tests encourage the use of such models in predicting actual fire behavior. Such prediction is possible only when the outcome of a prototype and its model are related by appropriate scaling laws. The aim of this work is to focus on experimental and theoretical studies conducted in order to develop and test these scaling laws. Although major emphasis is given to studies aimed at enclosure flashover phenomenon, studies on scale modeling of open fires are also discussed to enhance understanding of fire modeling techniques. Despite the fact that considerable amount of work has been done in developing these scaling laws, success has been achieved only for certain fuels, fuel locations, interior finish materials and room geometry. More research is needed in order to extend the range of applicability of scaling laws to predict fire behavior in an enclosure.

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