FPE PhD Proposal: Influence of Wavy Water on Pool Fire Combustion

“Influence of Wavy Water on Pool Fire Combustion” Nate Sauer WPI Fire Protection Engineering

Tuesday, September 27, 2022 11:00am-12:30pm https://wpi.zoom.us/j/99202759231 US: +16469313860,,99202759231# or +13017158592,,99202759231#

Abstract:

A quick and effective response to ocean oil spills is critical to minimizing environmental damage. In-situ burning (ISB) is a cleanup and containment technique that calls for the gathering and burning of spilled fuel in place on the ocean surface. ISB is particularly well regarded for its speed, effectiveness, and low cost. Little research has been completed on the impact of waves on hydrocarbon pool burning on water. This study attempts to investigate the influence of surface water waves on the burning characteristics of hydrocarbon fuels floating on water at three distinct scales. At the medium scale (80cm diameter burns) constantly replenished fuel layers are used to investigate a steady state condition with waves. Waves overall are shown to have a negative effect on burning by decreasing the burning rate, lowering internal fuel temperatures, and increasing unburnt residues.

Committee: Prof. Ali Rangwala, Advisor – Professor, Department of Fire Protection Engineering Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Prof. Morris Flynn – Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering University of Alberta, Prof. Jose Torero – Professor and Head of Civil, Environmental, Geomatic & Environmental Engineering, University College London, Leonard Zabilansky, PE – Principal Engineer National Oil Spill Response Research & Renewable Energy Test Facility, Prof. Albert Simeoni – Professor and Department Head, Fire Protection Engineering Worcester Polytechnic Institute