Atrium hot smoke tests in a big shopping complex

Hot smoke tests were carried out in the site of four atriums of heights over 32 m in a big shopping complex. The objective was to evaluate the performance of the mechanical smoke exhaust systems installed. This is required while inspecting the fire service installations as specified in the local codes. Testing procedures followed those in Australian Standard with slight modifications. A 2 MW methanol pool fire was agreed in the tests. It was set up with six trays in a test chamber for reducing the radiation effect to adjacent combustibles. The main testing criterion is to demonstrate that the smoke layer can be kept above 8 m upon operating the smoke exhaust system. Other testing criteria listed in the code such as that on roof air temperature were also assessed. Elevation of the smoke layer interface was observed visually through indication marks placed at height 8 m above the floor. Vertical temperature profile was also measured by a thermocouple tree placed a distance away from the fire source. Results of the hot smoke tests confirmed that operating the mechanical smoke exhaust system installed in the four atriums would keep space below 8 m free of smoke.