Yao B, Fan WC, Liao GX (1999a) Interaction of water mists with a diffusion flame in a confined space. Fire Safety Journal 33(2), 129-139. [In English]

Web link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/s0379-7112(99)00020-x

Keywords:

interaction, water mists, diffusion flame, confined space, fire, sprays

Abstract: This paper describes the study of the interaction of water mists with a diffusion flame in a confined space with proper ventilation control. Water mist was generated by a single pressure nozzle and diffusion flames were produced from ethanol and pine samples, respectively. The LDV/APV system was employed to determine the water mist characteristics. The Cone Calorimeter was used to measure the heat release rate, oxygen and carbon monoxide concentrations and other important parameters of the interaction under various conditions. The test results showed that water mist suppressed the diffusion flame in the confined space through oxygen displacement, evaporative cooling and heat radiant attenuation, and enhanced the combustion through expansion of the mixture and chain reaction as well. Suppression played the dominating role when the water mists with enough volume flux were applied to the diffusion flame in confined space. The poorer was the ventilation, the easier the suppression. The water mists had a more complex effect on the solid sample than the liquid, and affected the smoke release rate and movement. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.