5 Questions
What are two possible reasons why a compartment fire may enter the decay stage?
Consumption of available fuel and limited oxygen.
What happens to the heat release rate when oxygen concentration drops?
It decreases.
What may occur in the involved compartment(s) during the decay stage?
Contain a high concentration of hot, pyrolized fuel, and flammable gaseous products of combustion.
What can cause a fire to move into the decay stage, apart from fuel consumption?
Insufficient oxygen due to ventilation profile.
What may happen to temperature despite a decrease in heat release rate during the decay stage?
It may continue to rise for some time.
Study Notes
Compartment Fire Stages
- A compartment fire can enter the decay stage when available fuel is consumed or due to limited oxygen.
- Without intervention, a structure can reach full involvement and move into the decay stage as fuel is consumed.
Factors Affecting Fire Development
- Insufficient oxygen in the ventilation profile of a compartment or building can cause a fire to move into the decay stage.
- Heat release rate decreases as oxygen concentration drops.
Hazards of Decay Stage
- Temperature may continue to rise for some time despite decreasing heat release rate.
- Involved compartments may contain a high concentration of hot, pyrolized fuel and flammable gaseous products of combustion, posing a significant threat.
Learn about the stages of fire development, including the decay stage, which can occur due to fuel consumption, oxygen limitation, or ventilation profile.
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