heal.abstract |
The present thesis examined the response of the fire detection systems on the deck of passenger/Ro-Ro ships, by performing a series of numerical simulations examining different parameters, namely the intensity of the fire, the sensitivity and the arrangement of the detectors, the deck’s loading condition, the wind effect. Firstly, the basic principles of heat transfer are stated, in order to understand how a fire is spread. Subsequently, the current SOLAS and FSS code regulations concerning fire detection systems are presented. Then follows the description of the various smoke and heat detectors and their operation principle. Thereafter, identifying the factors that affect the fire’s detection, the selection of the appropriate detection system is examined, based on data from the study of EMSA (Firesafe II detection and decision). Furthermore, the mathematical model of heat detection, as well as its application on smoke detection systems through the solution the equations that govern the phenomenon are studied. Finally, the results obtained from the simulations are presented, commented on and compared, concluding to the following main outcomes:
• The detectors’ sensitivity is a crucial parameter of early detection of smoke and heat
• The presence of wind delays the detection of heat and smoke
• A slow-growing fire is more difficult to detect than a “fast” fire
• The amount of smoke produced per gram of fuel directly affects the detection of smoke
• A dense detector array provides a more immediate response than a sparse array
• Heat detection appears to be faster on a partially loaded deck; on the other hand, smoke detection appears to respond more immediately when the deck is fully loaded
The aim of this thesis is to comprehend the operation principles of heat and smoke detection systems on vehicle decks, as well as their response under various conditions. Choosing the appropriate fire detection system offers a higher level of fire safety, as the detection of the fire at an early stage makes its extinguishing more manageable, thus preventing possible human losses, economic and ecological disasters. |
en |