| Abstract: |
Two different numerical simulation tools, Fire Dynamic Simulator (FDS) and ThermaKin, are investigated with respect to their capability to predict the mass loss rate of polymer materials exposed to different fires. For validation, gasification apparatus and cone calorimeter tests are conducted. The main focus is on the influence of residue formation. Therefore, poly(butylene terephtalate) (PBT) and PBT reinforced with glass fibres (PBT-GF) are investigated and compared. PBT decomposes almost completely, while PBT-GF forms residue. The materials are characterized in order to provide suitable input parameters. Additionally the total incident heat flux to the sample is measured. With accurate input parameters, FDS and ThermaKin predicted the pyrolysis behaviour of PBT very well. Only some limitations are identified regarding the residue-forming PBT-GF. Both numerical simulation tools demonstrate a high value regarding the assessment of parameters’ relative impacts |
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