Recent developments and applications in structural fire engineering design—A review

Abstract

This review outlines some of the major developments that have occurred in structural fire engineering design during recent years. The general principles used in fire engineering are discussed together with the various approaches that can be adopted by an architect or engineer to design a structure capable of withstanding the attack of fire without collapsing, using scientific concepts as a basis for determining the fire resistance and protection requirements. Details are provided of recent full-scale tests and research work either completed or in hand with the aim of producing design concepts and information which the fire engineer may use. Examples are discussed to show how structural fire engineering has been utilised in both large and small buildings to precisely define the fire resistance and protection requirements of steel frameworks. In some instances, estimates of the financial savings realised in following this type of approach are also given.