A dynamic approach to fire design

Regardless of the size or complexity of the project, advanced digital techniques and computer modelling can be used to plan fire safety and smoke control systems, as well as optimise the layout of the building. Here Dan Foster explains Computational Fluid Dynamics and the role it plays.

Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modelling simulates how fluid or air moves over a surface or within a space. It is widely used in aerospace design and the automotive industry to test and refine the aerodynamics of a new prototype. In the context of fire system design, CFD modelling software creates a detailed virtual representation of the building and shows how the layout of the building will affect the spread of fire and smoke. It also allows any areas where fire may spread more quickly or where smoke is likely to be hotter or denser to be pinpointed.

This enables the safety measures and ventilation systems to be planned based on the findings and once they have been integrated into the virtual model, the simulation is run again to assess the effectiveness of the proposed solution. This allows developments and improvements to be made where necessary to create the ideal approach. The results of the CFD modelling can also be used to prove the effectiveness of a strategy to provide evidence of compliance with building regulations.

CFD Modelling provides a superior degree of accuracy, detail and reliability, allowing smoke ventilation and fire safety systems to be optimised. Greater design freedom to create larger spaces and extend travel distances can be achieved by clearly demonstrating that the safety of occupants is maintained. However, this is most effective if utilised during the earlier stages of a project, when there is greater scope to make adjustments to the design. Therefore, it is important to seek advice from specialists during the planning phase to maximise the benefits.

Digital techniques are increasingly being used to design and construct buildings of every size and type. Analysis tools such as CFD modelling provide an understanding of how fire safety systems will perform in practice within the building in question. This avoids issues of non-compliance and offers the opportunity for developers and building owners to optimise the space within the property.

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