A Generalized Model for Wall Flame Heat Flux During Upward Flame Spread on Polymers

Abstract

A current model accurately predicts flame to surface heat flux during upward flame spread on PMMA based on a single input parameter, the mass loss rate. In this study, the model was generalized to predict the heat flux for a broad range of polymers by adding the heat of combustion as a second input parameter. Experimental measurements were conducted to determine mass loss rate during upward flame spread and heat of combustion for seven different polymers. Four types of heat of combustion values were compared to determine which generated the most accurate model predictions. The complete heat of combustion yielded the most accurate predictions (± 4 kW/m2 on average) in the generalized model when compared to experimental heat flux measurements collected in this study. Flame heat flux predictions from FDS direct numerical simulations were also compared to the generalized model predictions in an exploratory manner and found to be similar.