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The National Fire Research Laboratory

National Fire Research Laboratory Interior

The National Fire Research Laboratory (NFRL) is a unique experimental facility dedicated understanding fire behavior and structural response to fire. The laboratory offers approximately 3000 m2 of testing space constructed around four exhaust hoods (1 MW, 3 MW, 10 MW and 20 MW). The facility has a strong-floor and strong-wall to allow for controlled structural loading underneath the 20 MW exhaust hood.

For additional details and project information please visit the main NFRL homepage.

Specifications/Capabilities

Equipment

  • Natural gas fuel delivery system and reference burners up to 20 MW
  • Four Oxygen Consumption Calorimeters (20 kW to 20 MW)
    • 3.0 m x 3.0 m (10 ft x 10 ft) 
    • 6.1 m x 6.1 m (20 ft x 20 ft)
    • 9.1 m x 12.2 m (30 ft x 40 ft)
    • 13.7 m x 15.2 m (45 ft x 50 ft)
  • Real-time data and video collection and data management systems
  • Two 18.1 metric ton (20 ton) bridge cranes
  • Hydraulic Power Unit 340 lpm (90 gpm)
  • Double-acting hydraulic actuators  
    • Eight 240 kN (55 kip) tension | 365 kN (80 kip) compression
    • Two 445 kN (100 kip) tension | 650 kN (145 kip) compression
    • Two 956 kN (215 kip) tension | 1470 kN (330 kip) compression

Strong Floor

  • 18.3 m x 27.4 m (60 ft x 90 ft) post-tensioned floor with accessible basement
  • 1218 anchor points on 0.61 m x 0.61 m 
(2 ft x 2 ft) grid
  • Tension capacity per anchor point: 445 kN (100 kips)
  • Shear capacity per anchor point: 222 kN (50 kips)

Strong Wall

  • 9.1 m high x 18.3 m wide (30 ft high x 60 ft wide)
  • 420 anchor points on 0.61 x 0.61 m (2 ft x 2 ft) grid
  • Horizontal load capacity: 146 kN/m (10 kips per lineal ft) at 9.14 m (30 ft)
Created April 27, 2011, Updated June 24, 2024