Simulation of indoor pollutant transport from a smoldering fireplace in a common dwelling under VMC.

Abstract

This work presents a case study of a dwelling with a typical VMC installation, consisting on mechanical exhausts sited in service areas (kitchen and bathroom). It was considered the particular situation of an undergoing smoldering fire in an open fireplace located in the living room. A CFD simulation of the airflow inside the house was performed using NIST1 Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS), prescribing recommended rates for mechanical outflow and approximate thermal and mass flux conditions for the smoldering combustion.

Under these conditions, it was observed an inflow of air from the chimney above the fireplace, promoting pollutants dispersion in the house. Future work is encouraged for a better understanding of smoldering combustion in a fireplace application in order to develop a better model. Present values over estimate emissions but indicate the need for a more detailed investigation accessing the real risk for the occupant’s health under the reported circumstances.