Validation of the fire dynamics simulator (FDS) model for fire scenarios with two liquid pool fires in multiple compartments

A validation study on the fire dynamics simulator (FDS) model for fire scenarios with multiple liquid pool fires occurring in multiple compartments was performed. For fire growth in the open simulation, the mass loss rate per unit area (MLRPUA) time curve obtained experimentally was used as the input. In the blind simulation, the pyrolysis model was used. For the ventilation flow rate curve, the supply/exhaust flow rate curve measured in the experiment was used as the input for the open simulation, whereas the quadratic fan curve model was used for the blind simulation. The time-averaged datasets of the output parameters from the FDS model and experiment were plotted as data points on scatter plots. In terms of bias factor and model standard deviation of output parameters, the scatter plots under the open simulation conditions were compared with those of NUREG-1824. Under blind simulation conditions, the bias factor and model standard deviation of output parameters increased significantly. A sensitivity analysis was performed on input parameters, such as the MLRPUA time curve, supply/exhaust flow time curve, compartment leak area, and maximum differential pressure in the compartment. Within the given ranges of the sensitivity input parameter values, only changing the MLRPAU time curve significantly affected the bias factor and model standard deviation of the output parameters. •A validation study of FDS model for a multisource fire was performed.•Open and blind simulations for fire growth and ventilation were compared.•The global error (the time-average error) for the entire fire duration was assessed.•Time-average error were determined with the model uncertainty metrics of NUREG-1824.•Predictions were validated in terms of bias factors and standard deviations.