Data Reduction of Room Tests for Zone Model Validation

Compartment fire zone models are based on many simplifying assumptions, in particular that gases stratify in two distinct layers. Because of these assumptions, certain model output is in a form unsuitable for direct com parison to measurements made in full-scale room tests. The experimental data must first be reduced and transformed to be compatible with the model output. In this article, new techniques are described to calculate neutral plane height, vent flow rates, uniform upper and lower layer temperature and interface height from measured temperature profiles. The new calculation procedures conserve mass in the room. The procedures were used for data reduction of a series of 8 gas burner calibration room tests. The results of one of the tests are discussed in detail as an illustrative example.