FIRE TEST RATINGS FOR SHELTER COMPONENTS.

Abstract : The work provides guidance for assessing fire effects on shelters of the type to withstand 10 to 15 psi overpressures. It also assesses the heat transfer through concrete, and the penetration of fire gases through door assemblies, as a result of uncontrolled fire in contact with the shelter. Based on existing data for properties of concrete and characteristics of debris fires, a theoretical analysis is used to predict the heat loads imposed on shelters by debris fires above. Results are given for ranges of fire conditions, concrete properties, and concrete thickness, and a method is suggested for estimating cooling requirements needed to remove the fire-induced heat load. Experiments were performed with six door assemblies, similar in design to blast-resistant assemblies, in order to evaluate penetration of fire gases. (Author)