This Digest explains the methodologies being used for the computer simulation of fire. It focuses on models of the fire itself: the essentially gas phase phenomenon at the heart of any fire simulation. Numerical modelling has become increasingly attractive for those wishing to fully exploit the freedoms to achieve safe, cost effective design offered by performance based regulation. This new edition of Digest 367 supersedes the version published in 1991. It explains fire growth and spread, and the two basic types of computer simulation methodologies. These are the zonal models, and the more universal field models that use the specialist discipline of computational fluid dynamics. Two types of field model are described which employ alternative approaches using Reynolds Averaged and Large Eddy methodologies to capture the influences of turbulence. An example shows the BRE CRISP model applied to the problem of smoke spread through a two storey theatre and the evacuation of the occupants.

Computer simulation proves to be a valuable tool for the analysis and prediction of compartment fires. With the proper understanding and software, fire safety professionals can use modeling tools and methods to find answers to many critical questions relating to the prevention, investigation, and reconstruction of compartment fires. Thoroughly updated and revised, An Introduction to Mathematical Fire Modeling, Second Edition introduces the concepts, software, and techniques of computer-aided mathematical modeling and the software for the analysis and prediction of a variety of compartment fires. Beginning with basic compartment fire theory, the author develops a simple mathematical model that provides an engineering approximation of the time-varying conditions created by fires in an enclosure that may be subject to hot-layer vents. This is the first book focused on the deterministic computer modeling of compartment fires, and the FIRM model presented is the first fire model to be documented, validated, verified, and evaluated according to ASTM guidelines. The text includes detailed information on the use of the QBASIC software provided on an enclosed CD-ROM.