Using experimental sprinkler actuation times to assess the performance of Fire Dynamics Simulator

Abstract

This article considers the predictive capabilities of Fire Dynamics Simulator for sprinkler actuation time when benchmarked against data from a series of 22 enclosure experiments. Sensitivity analyses have been undertaken for grid size, conductivity factor, radiative fraction and enclosure leakage areas. ‘Goodness of fit’ calculations indicate that Fire Dynamics Simulator is able to provide an average prediction of sprinkler actuation time within a Euclidean relative difference of 0.18. Comparisons to results determined in previous studies, using different modelling methods and Fire Dynamics Simulator versions, have also been made. The sensitivity analyses and comparisons indicate the importance of the decisions made by the modeller in representing fire scenarios, even when modelling ‘simple’ experiments where data for inputs such as the heat release rate, geometry and sprinkler characteristics are available. The comparisons therefore indicate that with the reduced degrees of freedom compared to other modelling studies, there is still potential for a range of assumptions and simulation results.