Fire detection and suppression in rooms with different geometries

The paper presents experimental research findings on the integral characteristics of physicochemical processes in the area around a fire at different stages of its development and suppression. The purpose of this study was to determine the characteristics of the operation of fire detectors in rooms of various geometries. The temperatures in different cross sections, as well as the composition of gaseo us products of thermal decomposition and flame combustion of materials were investigated. The study dealt with class A fires involving wood. Mock-ups of rooms with distinctly different geometries were used: a parallelepiped, a rectangular truncated pyramid and a bow-roof (arched) structure. Efficient arrangement of technical equipment (light and gas analysis sensors, heat and smoke detectors, nozzles) was determined to provide early detection of a fire, prompt initiation of suppression and completion of combustion and smoldering. Minimum volumes of a firefighting liquid (water in this case) and spraying times were identified that are necessary and sufficient to suppress combustion. Guidelines were proposed on the arrangement of technical equipment for early fire detection and efficient containment of fire in the shortest time. A mathematical apparatus has been developed that allows predicting the performance of fire detectors and sensors. The research results can be used to evaluate the most effective locations for fire sensors in the design of buildings and structures.