Numerical Study on Impulse Ventilation for Smoke Control in an Underground Car Park

Abstract

This study examines smoke control capacity of impulse ventilation system (IVS) in an underground car park. An analysis is made in relation to important parameters including jet fan number, jet fan velocity, extract rate and system robustness on fire position. The comparison with ductwork system is also performed to determine the different effect of smoke control between two systems. Fire Dynamic Simulator version 5.30 is applied to simulate 10 scenarios in a 80 m long, 40 m wide and 3.2 m height domain witha fire source simulating a car fire with an peak heat release rate of 4 MW. Results show that impulse ventilation system not noly prohibit fire smoke spreading but also maintain a good visibility providing clear access for fighters. However it may cause temperature rise on the downwind zone of fire source with a maximum value between 80-100 and fire plume e tilt. Smoke control capacity of impulse ventilation system is sensitive to jet fan numbers. Too high jet fan velocity may cause severe smoke recirculation. Increment in extract rate is conductive to relay jet flows. An impulse ventilation system can effectively control smoke movement and induce smoke to extract points under two typical different fire locations, which is of great practical importance. Impulse ventilation system seems superior to ductwork system in maintaining high visibility.