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Can we predict performance of low-energy buildings during a fire, based on existing fire classification schemes?

Number: pap. 970

Author(s) : SMOLKA M., MESSERSCHMIDT B.

Summary

The Energy Performance of Buildings directive will lead to new buildings being built differently than the mostly stone, brick and concrete structures of the last 50 years. Modern methods of construction such as lightweight systems incorporating high amounts of thermal insulation and load bearing structures optimised to the smallest possible cross section needed will be the building systems of choice. While lightweight systems meet certain needs in the sustainability trend they do create challenges to fire safety. Most lightweight building systems with combustible materials positioned behind a thin non-combustible board, render or a steel sheet will with the present testing and classifications scheme obtain fire classifications which makes it possible to use them in many applications all over Europe. But what these classifications do not reflect is that the building system most likely will become involved in the fire if the fire reaches a certain size. Information delivered by existing classification schemes to the user has its serious limitations. Fire classes which are based on small-scale testing cannot be used to predict the performance of building at fires that have developed to larger than the design sizes. With the increased use of modern methods of construction both in new buildings and for retrofitting existing buildings it is essential that we face the challenges to fire safety, which these types of building systems provide. Only if we are aware of the true fire behaviour of the construction products and building systems used can an appropriate fire safety concept be developed.

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Pages: 10 p.

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Details

  • Original title: Can we predict performance of low-energy buildings during a fire, based on existing fire classification schemes?
  • Record ID : 30010403
  • Languages: English
  • Source: Clima 2013. 11th REHVA World Congress and 8th International Conference on Indoor Air Quality, Ventilation and Energy Conservation in Buildings.
  • Publication date: 2013/06/16

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