Comparison of Criteria for Room Flashover

Abstract

In structural fires flashover is characterized by the rapid transition in fire behavior from localized burning of fuel to the involvement of all combustibles in the enclosure. Major parameters affecting flashover are firegrowth rate, ventilation opening area, and room area. A comparison of flashover criteria is undertaken using the Thomas, Babrauskas, and the CFAST/FASTLite criteria, concentrating on the similarities and differences between the criteria in their assessment of the major parameters affecting the time to reach flashover.