Further Tunnel Research Projects:
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Measurements
Collection of relevant data of such large scale tests requires extensive measurement equipment and experience. The data logging and processing is carried out by the IdF (Institute of the Fire Brigades) from Magdeburg, Germany.
For this purpose, more than 100 sensors as well as additional equipment for gas analyses and visibility are installed throughout the tunnel.
Basically the following datas are collected:
- Temperatures
For temperature measurement, thermocouples are installed on both sides of the fire load covering the whole tunnel cross section. By means of this data, heat exposure to escaping people, rescue services and tunnel elements can be assessed.
Thermocouples are installed in the whole cross section of the test tunnel
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Radiant heat is measured at few meters distance of both sides of the fire
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- Radiant heat
Beside air temperature, radiation is measured additionally. Strong radiant heat makes the approach of fire fighters to the seat of fire very difficult.
- Visibility
For evacuation and work of rescue services visibility is of greatest importance. All tests are recorded on Video and Photos are taken. Additionally, the visibility is measured by a newly developed method, which generates more realistic results as formerly known techniques.
Visibility is measured by lighted elements
- Air velocity
To study interaction with various ventilation systems normally used in tunnels, air velocity is measured in the whole tunnel cross section.
Pilot tubes are located within the cross
section to measure wind velocity
- Gas analysis
Essential part of the measurement equipment is the gas analysis. Concentrations of oxygen, carbon monoxide and –dioxide are measured to study potential risks for people as well as to calculate the heat release rate of the fire.
Gases are collected in the tunnel and
are analysed in a second tunnel beneath
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SOLIT - SAFETY OF LIFE IN TUNNELS
