Correlating downward flame spread rates for thick fuel beds

Abstract

Flame spread rates are presented for polymethylmethacrylate fuel beds as a function of gravitational acceleration and ambient pressure and oxygen concentration. The data are correlated by plotting a dimensionless spread rate that is a measure of the heat transferred forward of the flame, required to sustain the flame, compared to the maximum possible forward heat transfer against a Damkoehler number. The latter parameter indicates the approach of the flame to its maximum temperature, where the maximum possible forward heat transfer occurs, such that the dimensionless spread rate approaches unity at large Damkoehler number. Surface regression effects on the flame spread process are incorporated into the dimensionless spread rate, and the final correlation is independent of bed thickness.