Modelling of thermal radiation from external hydrocarbon pool fires

A review of literature and published full-scale measurements has been undertaken in order to assess the current status of the modelling of thermal radiation from hydrocarbon pool fires. Based on the review, a semi-empirical model was developed, in which the pool fire is assumed to radiate in two layers; a high emissive power, clean burning zone, at the base, with a smoky, obscured layer above. The choice and development of model correlations was made through comparison against a wide range of field-trial data, which was drawn together to form a validation database. The review also enabled a property database to be produced, containing burning rate and surface emissive power data for a broad range of liquid hydrocarbon fuels. The uncertainty in the application of semi-empirical pool fire modelling is discussed with regard to its use in assessing thermal radiation effects and estimating flame dimensions.