At SOTERA, we are thrilled to tackle complex challenges using advanced Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS) modelling. In a recent project, we explored the impact of waffle-structured (a grid pattern, usually square, to add depth or light) ceilings on sprinkler activation times, a critical factor for occupant safety and fire response. We modelled a car park with both flat and waffle-structured ceilings, simulating an ultra-fast vehicle fire scenario with a peak fire growth rate of 8 MW.
There was a significant concern that the waffle-structured ceiling would delay the activation of sprinklers, which is the only form of detection within the car park. Our thermocouple-based analysis showed that the waffle ceiling did not significantly delay sprinkler activation compared to a flat ceiling.
Previous studies (O’Connor et al., 2006; Pongpichaiudom et al., 2020; and Vettori, 2003) have demonstrated that this ceiling configuration does not significantly impact sprinkler activation. These findings highlight Sotera’s expertise in utilizing sophisticated modelling to solve intricate problems, ensuring reliable safety solutions for our clients.
Reference:
- O’Connor, D.J., Cui, E., Klaus, M.J., Lee, C.H., Su, C., Sun, Z., He, M., Jiang, Y., Vythoulkas, J. and Al-Farra, T., 2006. Smoke Detector Performance for Level Ceilings with Deep Beams and Deep Beam Pocket Configurations-Research Project. Fire Protection Research Foundation.
- Pongpichaiudom, T., Aroonsrisopon, T. and Boonmee, N., 2020, August. A Study of Sprinkler Activation for Waffle Beam Structure by Using Fire Dynamic Simulation. In Rangsit Graduate Research Conference: RGRC (Vol. 15, No. 2563), pp. 2293-2306).
- Vettori, R.L., 2003. Effect of beamed, sloped, and sloped beamed ceilings on the activation time of a residential sprinkler. National Institute of Standards and Technology, Building and Fire Research Laboratory.