Travelling fire experiments in steel-framed structure: numerical investigations with CFD and FEM

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to propose a simplified representation the fire load in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) represent effect large-scale travelling and highlight relevance such an approach whilst coupling CFD results with finite element method (FEM) evaluate related steel temperatures, comparing numerical outcomes experimental measurements. Design/methodology/approach This presents setup simulations (FDS software), its corresponding assumptions calibration via two natural tests focusing on gas temperatures measured central column. For latter, methods are presented: one based EN 1993-1-2 another linking FEM (SAFIR ® software). Findings suggests that can allow for acceptable both terms spread temperatures. inevitable limitations inherent simplifications made during also discussed. Regarding lead quite similar results, but ones obtained CFD–FEM closer those measured. Originality/value work has revealed proposed appears be appropriate temperature structural elements within reasonable limits time, making it potentially desirable practical applications. first comparisons FDS–SAFIR highlighting promising outcomes.