Partitions and the Flow of Smoke in Large Volume Buildings

This paper presents partial results and the major findings of an experimental program on the flow of smoke inside of large volume buildings. The experiments presented herein were focused on the influence of vertical and horizontal partitions inside of shopping malls, on the mass flow and the temperature of the smoke removed from the mall. The focal point of the paper is the influence of the opening sizes on the amount and the temperature of smoke removed through it, also in relation to the horizontal distance underneath projecting balcony, between the compartment and a common mall. Improved comprehension of this impact may allow the design of buildings, which require smaller ventilation systems and provide better conditions within for their occupants. This paper presents the results of mass flow of smoke in function of the size of a compartment opening, and the mass flow factor (Mb/Mo) as a function of width and height of the opening, and the depth of the balcony. The paper presents conclusions related to the commonly used design methods.