Large scale pool fire with a fully engulfed tank - Experimental data and numerical validation of the flame height and flame behaviour around the tank

Abstract

This work outlines the experimental conditions and tests results for a cylindrical carrier submitted to a large (>20 m2) and powerful (>40 MW) pool fire to assess its compliance with safety regulations for transporting hazardous materials. Data from thermocouples placed around the carrier, above the pool fire, in the fire plume, and from plate thermocouples at the edge of the pool fire are provided. The temperature criteria of 800 °C were met both close (10 cm) and away (50 cm) from the tank.Furthermore, a validation analysis was performed using Fire Dynamics Simulator code to assess its predictive capabilities for simulating large-scale pool fires with engulfed tanks. Numerical results demonstrated good agreement with the experimental data, highlighting its potential to assist in the dimensioning or design of such large-scale tests.