THE USE OF MODELS FOR THE INVESTIGATION OF FIRE SPREAD.

The purpose of this program was to investigate the use of models for the study of fire spread and the use of modeling techniques for defining those factors which contribute to the development of mass fires. The scope of the program was later expanded to demonstrate the practicability for a new concept for the nondestructive modeling of mass fires. It is concluded that mass fires cannot be modeled with information now available. Extrapolations up and down of existing data and assumed probabilities would require extensive tests before confidence in modeling techniques could be established. Direct experimentation on small-scale models shows promise, and their use is discussed in detail. The feasibility of an electronic fire simulator has been demonstrated and offers attractive possibilities. A study of typical conflagrations indicated a good possibility for the calibration of mass fire models using actual situations. Recommendations for the further development of models are included. Author