Fire-induced structural failure: the World Trade Center, New York

Fire investigation has generally concentrated on determination of the cause and origin of a fire. Methodologies developed for this purpose have thus focused on the dynamics of fire growth and investigation of its effect on different objects within the structure affected by the fire. It is unusual to see a fire investigation emphasising structural damage as a way to obtain information for fire reconstruction. The series of dramatic fire events that occurred on 11 September 2001 within the World Trade Center, New York complex have emphasised the need to introduce structural analysis as a companion to evaluation of a fire timeline. Only a combined analysis is capable of providing a complete reconstruction of the event and therefore a solid determination of causality. This paper presents a methodology to establish, by means of modern structural and fire analysis tools, the sequence of events leading to a structural failure. This analysis will be compared with classic cause and origin techniques, emphasising the importance of a comprehensive study. Specific structural features and fire conditions that lead to unique forms of failure will be discussed, establishing the complexity of linking fire, structure characteristics and failure mode. The collapse of buildings 1 and 2 of the World Trade Center will be used to illustrate different forms of failure and the fires that cause them

Guide to performance-based fire protection

Performance‐Based design and evaluation require a thorough knowledge of computer modeling and the latest engineering techniques. Use processes devised by the field’s leading authorities to define project scope and identify goals, specify stakeholder and design objectives, develop performance criteria, create fire scenarios and trial designs and evaluate designs. Appendices provide real‐life examples, easy‐to‐follow guidelines on the use of statistical data, detailed advice on risk and uncertainty analyses, plus expert tips about selecting models. The Guide is a “must” for engineers, AHJs, architects, building owners, fire officials and anyone who applies or approves performance‐based codes with this unique guide

Charter - Society of Fire Protection Engineers - The Student Chapter at Worcester Polytechnic Institute

The Student Chapter of the Society of Fire Protection Engineers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute was chartered on May 16, 1976 after being active on campus since 1974

SFPE Engineering Guide to Human Behavior in Fire

Abstract not availabl

Fire Protection Man of the Year Plaque

Presented to Duane D Pearsall by the Society of Fire Protection Engineers. Measures 10 x 12.5 inche

SPFE Fire Protection Man of the Year Award

Front of photo SPFE Fire Protection Man of the Year Award presented to Duane Pearsall by SPFE President Jack Bono, May 21, 1980