Fire Intensity-Resistance Evaluation

Computer-aided procedures have been developed to allow architects and engineers with no previous computer experience to predict the theoretical fire rating of different layers of fireproofing materials. The device which permits such a theoretical evaluation is a problem-oriented computer language known as FIRE (Fire Intensity-Resistance Evaluation). Using the procedure in the language the engineer can choose up to three different layers of material to be evaluated under various fire intensities. The layers which can contain water or different transformation products can be considered to be in intimate contact or separated by an air gap. The various layers can also be attached to a heat sink which represents the mass of various structural members of different sizes. A directory of 50 materials is available for evaluation under fire exposures of different intensities and durations. Correlations are now being carried with existing fire tests to insure the best fit for the different material parameters required.