Experimental investigation of Externally Venting Flames using a medium-scale compartment-facade configuration

The main scope of this work is to investigate the fundamental physical phenomena associated with Externally Venting Flames (EVF) and the factors influencing their development. In this context, a series of fire experiments is conducted in a medium-scale compartment-façade configuration; an n-hexane liquid pool fire is utilized, aiming to realistically simulate an "expendable" fire source. A parametric study is performed by varying the fire load and opening geometry. Emphasis is given to the characterization of the temperature environment adjacent to the façade wall. Experimental results suggest that the flame geometry and EVF duration are mainly affected by the opening dimensions, whereas the fuel load has a significant impact on the heat flux to the façade.