Research Article

The calculation of the heat release rate by oxygen consumption in a controlled-atmosphere cone calorimeter

  1. Martin Werrel1,2,*,
  2. Jan H. Deubel1,
  3. Simone Krüger1,
  4. Anja Hofmann1,
  5. Ulrich Krause3

Article first published online: 3 JAN 2013

DOI: 10.1002/fam.2175

Additional Information

How to Cite

Werrel, M., Deubel, J. H., Krüger, S., Hofmann, A. and Krause, U. (2013), The calculation of the heat release rate by oxygen consumption in a controlled-atmosphere cone calorimeter. Fire Mater.. doi: 10.1002/fam.2175

Author Information

  1. 1

    BAM Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing, Berlin, Germany

  2. 2

    Currently with BASF SE, Ludwigshafen am Rhein, Germany

  3. 3

    Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany

*Martin Werrel, BASF SE, G-KTF/EA - D219, Carl-Bosch-Str. 38, D-67056 Ludwigshafen am Rhein, Germany.E-mail: martin.werrel@basf.com

Publication History

  1. Article first published online: 3 JAN 2013
  2. Manuscript Accepted: 20 NOV 2012
  3. Manuscript Revised: 12 NOV 2012
  4. Manuscript Received: 16 APR 2012

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Keywords:

  • controlled-atmosphere cone calorimeter;
  • heat release rate;
  • oxygen consumption;
  • cone calorimeter;
  • vitiation and ventilation control;
  • excess air

ABSTRACT

The standard cone calorimeter according to ASTM E 1354 and ISO 5660 enables reaction-to-fire tests to be performed in ambient atmospheric conditions. A controlled-atmosphere chamber modifies the standard apparatus in a way that allows tests to be performed in nonambient conditions as well. The enclosed chamber is placed underneath the standard exhaust hood and does not have a closed connection to the hood. With this open arrangement, the exhaust gases are diluted by excess air drawn in from the laboratory surroundings. Heat-induced changes in the consequential dilution ratio affect the calculation of fire quantities and, when neglected, lead to deviations of up to 30% in heat release rate. The paper introduces a test protocol and equations to calculate the heat release rate taking dilution effects into account. A mathematical correction is shown that compensates for the dilution effects while avoiding extensive mechanical changes in the equipment. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

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