Fluid dynamics of large area fires
The fluid dynamics of large area fires is considered. A critical review examines the use of asymptotic plume theories, rotating plume theories, and hydrocode simulations of fire-generated motions to describe a large area fire. A new model describing the strongly buoyant flow of the burning region and its transition to a weakly buoyant, free-convection column is reviewed. The new model simulates combustion processes by a volume heat addition, and allows large changes in density and temperature. Jump conditions applicable at the fire periphery are used to effect model problem closure, thus permitting calculation of the induced fire winds independent of a far-field analysis. Sample results show the turning and decay of a high-velocity inflow to form a nearly vertical flow, and illustrate how the generation of high-velocity fire winds is affected by the dimensions of the burning region, heat release, and the production of buoyancy and pressure gradients.
- Research Organization:
- Pacific-Sierra Research Corp., Los Angeles, CA
- OSTI ID:
- 5276126
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-830702-
- Journal Information:
- HTD (Publ.) (Am. Soc. Mech. Eng.); (United States), Journal Name: HTD (Publ.) (Am. Soc. Mech. Eng.); (United States) Vol. HTD-VOL.25; ISSN ASMHD
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
400800* -- Combustion
Pyrolysis
& High-Temperature Chemistry
42 ENGINEERING
420400 -- Engineering-- Heat Transfer & Fluid Flow
ASYMPTOTIC SOLUTIONS
CALCULATION METHODS
CHEMICAL REACTION KINETICS
COMBUSTION KINETICS
CONVECTION
DENSITY
DIMENSIONS
ENERGY TRANSFER
FIRES
FLAME PROPAGATION
FLOW MODELS
FLUID MECHANICS
HEAT TRANSFER
KINETICS
MATHEMATICAL MODELS
MECHANICS
MOTION
NATURAL CONVECTION
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
PLUMES
PRESSURE GRADIENTS
REACTION KINETICS
ROTATION
SIMULATION
TEMPERATURE DEPENDENCE
VELOCITY
VOLUME
WIND