Large-scale fire tests and observations of actual building fires have shown that the fire performance of actual steel framed buildings is much better than was previously thought. Recent research has shown that the standard fire resistance requirements for such structures are often over specified.
Finite Elements Analysis [FEA] is an advanced computational technique that assesses the non-linear behaviour of structures in fire. The analysis allows the structure to be tailored to achieve the required fire resistance periods with the minimum fire protection. Using advanced software, the structure of the building is exposed, in simulation, to a number of fire scenarios and its performance is evaluated.
Applied passive fire protection is expensive, often unsightly and can delay building completion. Many types of fire protection have a limited life and need periodic maintenance, particularly where elements can be exposed to mechanical damage.
Over-specification of fire protection can substantially increase costs during the lifetime of the building. The use of FEA techniques can eliminate as much as half the applied fire protection normally imposed by standard guidance.
Optimisation of passive fire protection with considerable cost saving.
Analysis of buildings for extreme events.
Structural optimisation in fire conditions.
Innovative fire safety solutions using a performance approach.
HNLA Fire Engineering.
uses DeFire, one of the most sophisticated packages available for structural fire engineering. The software, developed by the University of Ulster incorporates a unique model to deal with compartmentation issues
uses DeFire, one of the most sophisticated packages available for structural fire engineering. The software, developed by the University of Ulster incorporates a unique model to deal with compartmentation issues
