Fire Dynamics Research by UL Firefighter Safety Research Institute

Fire Dynamics Research

• The UL Firefighter Safety Research Institute has been conducting research on fire dynamics for the past 10 years.
• The research focuses on understanding how fires grow and spread in homes to improve firefighter safety and efficiency.

Experimental Setup

• The project uses full-scale structures with controlled ventilation (opening doors or windows) to study the impact on fire patterns.
• Replicate fires are conducted with the building initially closed, then with openings made in subsequent tests.
• Probes measure temperature, gas velocity, and direction of hot gases and fresh air.

Data Collection

• Thermocouples measure temperature at intervals from ceiling to floor.
• Oxygen concentration is monitored at 4 feet and 4 inches above the floor.
• Pressure is monitored through taps in the wall.
• Cameras and sensors capture data on fire effects, such as ignition, flames, and smoke.

Investigation and Analysis

• The scene is documented with photographs before, during, and after the fire.
• Furniture is removed, and layers of the house are documented to analyze fire patterns.
• Data is analyzed with a technical panel of fire investigation experts to develop key findings and an online training program.

Impact and Applications

• The research aims to improve firefighter safety and efficiency by understanding fire dynamics and ventilation impacts.
• It also informs fire investigators about the impact of ventilation on fire patterns and origin.
• The project promotes collaboration between firefighters and investigators to improve overall fire safety and response.

Fire Dynamics Research

• UL Firefighter Safety Research Institute has conducted research on fire dynamics for 10 years to improve firefighter safety and efficiency.

Experimental Setup

• Full-scale structures with controlled ventilation (openings made in doors or windows) are used to study fire patterns.
• Replicate fires are conducted with the building initially closed, then with openings made in subsequent tests.

Data Collection

• Thermocouples measure temperature at intervals from ceiling to floor.
• Oxygen concentration is monitored at 4 feet and 4 inches above the floor.
• Pressure is monitored through taps in the wall.
• Cameras and sensors capture data on fire effects, such as ignition, flames, and smoke.

Investigation and Analysis

• The scene is documented with photographs before, during, and after the fire.
• Furniture is removed, and layers of the house are documented to analyze fire patterns.
• Data is analyzed with a technical panel of fire investigation experts to develop key findings and an online training program.

Impact and Applications

• The research aims to improve firefighter safety and efficiency by understanding fire dynamics and ventilation impacts.
• It informs fire investigators about the impact of ventilation on fire patterns and origin.
• The project promotes collaboration between firefighters and investigators to improve overall fire safety and response.