Structural fire analysis is crucial for fire safety engineering, ensuring that a building’s structure can endure the effects of a fire for a sufficient duration to protect occupants and maintain structural integrity. At Mechartes, we leverage our expertise in both Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to provide comprehensive fire safety solutions.

Our approach begins with advanced 3D CFD modeling to conduct detailed smoke analysis, identifying the maximum temperatures that structural materials may experience during a fire. This information is critical for determining whether fire-resistant coatings or other protective measures are necessary.

Following the CFD analysis, we perform an in-depth Thermal Structural and Buckling Analysis using state-of-the-art FEA software. Our non-linear analysis evaluates how varying temperature loads affect stress and deflection on structural elements, accounting for live loads and dead loads. We assess the maximum von Mises stresses against the material’s yield strength at elevated temperatures to ensure structural safety.

In addition, our buckling analysis examines how changes in temperature and mechanical properties impact the potential for structural buckling. This helps identify critical locations where buckling may occur during a fire scenario.

The study is carried out in accordance with local and international standards including NFPA 92, EN 1991-1-2:2002, ISO 16733, BS 7974, ASCE/SEI 7, ASTM E119, NFPA 5000, ISO 23932.

Based on our comprehensive analysis, we provide informed recommendations on the appropriate fireproofing measures, including the grade of intumescent coating or other materials required. Mechartes’ rigorous analysis ensures that buildings are designed to withstand fire conditions, safeguarding both occupants and structural integrity.