Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation is used to predict transient and time-averaged glame temperatures and species concentrations of an n-hexane pool flame. Employing a combination of an assumed probability density function approach with laminar flamelets using detailed kinetic data and large-eddy simulation with Smagorinsky submodel is shown to be a promising way in modeling pool and tank fires. The measured species concentration and flame temperature profiles from gas chromatography, thermocouple measurements and holographic interferometry are used to validate the submodels for CFD simulation of pool flames.
Limiting distances for flame merging of multiple n-heptane and di-tert-butyl peroxide pool fires
(2013)
Experiments to determine the limiting distances for flame merging of multiple pool fires are presented. As model substances n-heptane and di-tert-butyl peroxide are used. Laboratory scale tests with a Diameter d = 6 cm and relative distances between the pools of 0.08 ≤ D/d ≤ 4 are described and complemented with field experiments with a diameter d = 1.5 m and relative distances between the pools of 0.17 ≤ D/d ≤ 1.
Three regions for flame merging are observed and limiting distances are determined. A merging Region with the limiting distance Dmerg/d within which all flames merge together over the complete burning time. A transition region with the limiting distance Dtran/d within which some flames merge together while other flames are separated from each other. A separated region within which all flames are completely separated from each other. A correlation against the number of burning pools is presented to predict the limiting distances Dmerg/d und Dtran/d.
Data and prediction for the mass burning rate of a tert-butyl-peroxy-benzoat (TBPB) pool fire (pool diameter = 3 m) is presented. The mass burning rates of TBPB fires are up to six times higher and less dependent on pool diameter compared to hydrocarbon pool fires caused by an additional heat release rate due to exothermic decomposition reaction in the liquid phase. This heat release rate is calculated using a 1st order reaction kinetic obtained from micro calorimetric measurements. A new model is derived considering the heat release rate due to the decomposition reaction which is shown to be 100 % of the heat release rate radiated to the pool surface. With the presented model, including also physical quantities, especially the limiting fuel concentration for upward flame propagation, it is possible to predict the mass burning rates of large TBPB pool fires. The predicted values are in very good agreement with the experiments.
Data and predictions for the mass burning rates of di-tert-butyl peroxide (DTBP) pool fires (0.003 m < pool diameter < 3 m) are presented. The mass burning rates of DTBP fires are up to five times higher and are less dependent on pool diameter compared to hydrocarbon pool fires caused by an additional heat release rate due to exothermic decomposition reaction in the liquid phase. This heat release rate is calculated using a first-order reaction kinetic obtained from microcalorimetric measurements. A new model is derived considering the heat release rate due to the decomposition reaction, which is shown to be 40% of the heat release rate radiated to the pool surface. With the presented model, which also includes physical quantities, especially the limiting fuel concentration for upward flame propagation, it is possible to predict the mass burning rates of large DTBP pool fires. The predicted values are in very good agreement with the experiments.