Study on the effect of width and slope of large cross-section tunnel on critical velocity of fire

Abstract

when a tunnel fire occurs, due to the difference of tunnel width and slope, both smoke countercurrent length distribution law and critical velocity will become different, and these two are very important parameters in tunnel longitudinal ventilation design. Therefore, for the design of smoke control and longitudinal ventilation of the tunnel, based on actual highway tunnel size, this paper established and ran a series of numerical simulations through FDS simulation software to study tunnel width and slope?s effect on smoke countercurrent length and critical velocity. The results of this paper show that smoke countercurrent length decreases with tunnel slope?s increase and increases with tunnel width?s increase. Through dimensionless analysis, the prediction formulas of smoke countercurrent length and critical wind speed of large cross-section tunnel about tunnel width, slope and height are modified and established. The research conclusions can provide a theoretical basis for the longitudinal ventilation design, smoke prevention and exhaust measures and personnel evacuation in large cross-section tunnel fires.