Airflow is directly associated with fire and smoke, and we know how they can behave.
When fires break out in large, open spaces like central courts, concert halls, and sports venues, it can be especially dangerous since they rapidly fill with smoke that can complicate evacuation procedures. Furthermore, without an effective smoke management strategy, upper levels, stairwells, and other means of evacuation can quickly fill with smoke as well.
Our airflow experts determine where your building is vulnerable to smoke and fire issues, and we offer solutions to minimize risks and protect occupants by using modern and accurate methods.
Smoke Behavior
Because smoke inhalation is the leading cause of death among victims of indoor fires, predicting smoke behavior within a space is crucial to designing effective smoke management systems. Our engineers combine analytic tools and computational simulations to predict where smoke will go and how quickly it will accumulate. This information helps architects and engineers design spaces that are functional and safe.
Wind Effects
Even the best smoke management systems can be seriously hampered by a strong wind coming from the wrong direction. Our engineers use wind tunnel testing and local climate data to identify:
- what wind conditions your building is vulnerable to, and
- how often these conditions are likely to occur.
This critical information lets you plan ahead and reduce risks to life and property.
Smoke Management Strategies
Because smoke naturally rises on the column of hot air generated by a fire, buildings sometimes take advantage of this natural buoyancy to drive smoke toward exhausts. These natural ventilation approaches can be very effective, but understanding external wind effects is essential to ensure that natural ventilation actually works. Even if your building ultimately relies on mechanical systems to remove smoke, taking advantage of prevailing wind conditions could reduce the energy or equipment needed.
We study the unique challenges your building faces and recommend smoke removal systems that ensure safety and save money.