Fire and smoke modeling is conducted by using a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) fire model called Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS) that has the capability to simulate and measure the growth of fire, smoke hazards, fire detection activation time and the mitigating effects of active fire suppression systems. Valuable information is gained by employing this technology to analyze fire growth, smoke development and movement, fuel loading and egress times. We use these findings to develop appropriate methods to minimize fire and life safety risks.

The utilization of smoke control and fire modeling allows Architects, Engineers, and Owners to take a code-prescriptive or performance-based approach to life safety. Our BIM Specialists model movement of people, smoke and heat output of fires, and operation of detection and suppression devices such as smoke detectors and sprinklers to support code equivalencies, justify alternative fire protection approaches, and design performance-based systems. The results are presented using three-dimensional images or videos of buildings and structures in order to clearly convey the design to any audience.

Some of our areas of expertise include:

1. Engineered smoke control system calculations and supporting analysis.
2. Non-rated exposed steel construction calculations and supporting analysis.
3. Egress calculations and modeling.

Our aim is to be your one-stop source for any code-related questions or dilemmas that arise on your projects.

Specifically for smoke control, we can:

1. Provide knowledge of smoke control systems and their applications.
2. Provide general rules and guidelines for designing smoke control systems.
3. Present you with architectural options and available design options that can either eliminate the need for smoke control or provide a more efficient smoke control system.