Comparison of different combustion models in enclosure fire simulation

In this study, three combustion models, the volumetric heat source (VHS) mo del, the eddy break-up model and the presumed probability density function (prePDF) model, are examined in enclosure fire simulation. The combustion m odels are compared and evaluated for their performance in predicting three typical enclosure fires, a room fire, a shopping mall fire and a tunnel fir e. High Reynolds number turbulence k-epsilon model with buoyancy modificati on and the discrete transfer radiation model (DTRM) are used in the simulat ion. Corresponding experimental data from the literature are adopted for va lidation. The results show satisfactory prediction in flow patterns and fea tures in the complex enclosure fires. However, it is shown that these combu stion models are not able to show consistent performance over the different locations and enclosure fires. The needs for adequate turbulent combustion models in enclosure fires are discussed. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. Al l rights reserved.