Specialist simulation services
Technical modelling support for fire engineers and design teams—from agreed fire scenarios to clear, reviewable smoke-control and thermal-exposure results.
Discuss an FDS studyFDS (Fire Dynamics Simulator) is developed by NIST for low-speed flow with an emphasis on fire-driven smoke and heat transport. Smokeview displays simulation outputs. We scope each study around a defined engineering question and the software’s applicability.
Scenario-based modelling of smoke spread and thermal conditions in rooms, interconnected spaces and atria. We document the design fire, openings, ventilation states and output locations so results can be reviewed against the agreed fire strategy.
Comparison of smoke-extract and replacement-air arrangements, including specified fan operation and opening configurations. Outputs help the fire engineer assess smoke distribution and system interactions for the scenarios modelled—not every possible fire.
Time histories and spatial outputs for visibility, gas temperature and other agreed exposure measures at defined locations. These can inform available safe egress time (ASET) assessment using project-specific criteria selected by the responsible fire engineer.
Studies of gas temperatures, surface heating and incident heat flux at selected targets. Material properties, boundary conditions and thermal assumptions are reported. Structural fire resistance or failure assessment requires separate structural engineering.
Controlled comparisons of layout, fire location and ventilation assumptions. Mesh and input sensitivity studies are scoped to identify how key modelling choices affect the design conclusion, with limitations reported rather than hidden.
Smokeview animations, slices, selected device histories and a documented modelling report. Visualisations are tied to numerical outputs and scenario descriptions; an animation alone is not evidence of compliance.
We start by agreeing the modelling objective, responsible reviewer and acceptance criteria. The input brief should identify geometry, compartmentation, fire locations, heat-release-rate histories, fuel and smoke assumptions, ventilation sequences and any suppression assumptions supplied by the fire engineer. Unknown inputs are recorded for resolution or sensitivity testing.
The agreed scope can include geometry checks, model-version records, mesh-sensitivity assessment, review of relevant validation evidence, scenario comparisons and an assumptions register. Deliverables can include model input files, selected numerical outputs, Smokeview visualisations and a technical report that states the model’s limitations and the basis of each conclusion.
FDS results are scenario-dependent predictions, not a guarantee that a building is safe. The appropriate validation evidence and numerical resolution must be reviewed for the intended application. See the official NIST FDS and Smokeview resources and technical documentation.
Where an ASET/RSET comparison is required, required safe egress time (RSET), occupant behaviour and evacuation assumptions must be assessed separately by the responsible team. We do not present FDS as a standalone evacuation solver. NIST states that FDS+Evac support has been discontinued. The appointed fire engineer and relevant authority determine the acceptability of the overall design.
For normal occupied-room airflow and comfort work, see our COMSOL and OpenFOAM CFD services. Fire-driven smoke modelling and everyday thermal-comfort assessment are distinct scopes.
Services are modelling support, not independent fire certification, statutory sign-off or a substitute for a competent fire engineer. Final scope and review responsibilities are agreed before work begins.