Computer-simulation research on building-facade geometry for fire spread control in buildings with wood claddings

Abstract

Wood is a unique material with respect to fire. Despite being combustible, it is a stable structural element when confronted with flame due to its low thermal conductivity and characteristics of its chemical degradation (Pyrolysis). The level of fire resistance is determined by the mass, size, and configuration of the constructive elements used. When wood is used as a cladding material, takes the form of boards, plates, or other thin strips, therefore its behavior is subject to its combustibility. This risk is why building fire-safety codes and regulations in many countries have been increasingly restricting the use of combustible claddings. In this study we used modeling techniques and computer fire simulations to evaluate the influence of facade configuration on fire trajectory and the level of protection it can offer at the facade surfaces. Based on our results, it is possible to consider the use of horizontal projections, provided that they are of sufficient size (greater than 1.2m), to control the spread of fire and heat flow on the building’s facade. The study was performed using field models of computational fluid-dynamics. Particularly through the software: Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS) to solve numerically the mathematical integration models, PyroSim for the graphical interface, and Smokeview for viewing the results