Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Modelling

Fire development and smoke movement

Innovation Fire can bring value to your project by using CFD modelling of large or more complex schemes to assess the temperature and movement of smoke from a fire. We use the data to assess the time available for escape in the specific building and whether the proposed design meets the requirements of the Building Regulations for fire safety. The use of CFD modelling often provides the evidence necessary to show that an innovative design is safe for the occupants in the event of fire.

Thermal radiation for external fire spread.

Alternatively, Innovation Fire can use CFD modelling to assess radiation on the nominal boundary from a building for external fire spread. We model the external facades of the building as radiating panels and measure the radiation at relevant positions from the radiator within the model. This more precise calculation of radiation typically allows a 10-15% increase in unprotected area, compared to following prescriptive guidance, such as the enclosing rectangle method.