Research Projects

Objective: Development of flexible heating module for assessing fire rating of steel structual components.

Summary: The primary objective of this study is to develop a standardized controlled heating module capable to generate temperature- time curve as per ASTM E119-18a to study the performance of steel structural components under fire [Ref -1]. Fire resistance tests are intended to assess the performance of elements of construction for their load-bearing or fire separating properties. Conventionally fire rating testing of structural members is conducted in a closed chamber, where the visibility to gradual failure cannot be accessed. This project proposal is envisaged to overcome the difficulties existing in real time monitoring of behavior of structural components subjected to thermo- mechanical loading by ingenious method. Fire rating of steel structural components is one among the main design consideration for structures proposed under Govt.of India new initiative on smart cities [Smart cities Mission statement and Guidelines, Aman et al 2017]. Moreover, cost involved in thermal related experiments and devices are huge and not affordable. In the present proposed project an attempt is put forward to ingeniously develop an economically feasible device and set-up for assessing fire rating of steel structural components. The device developed along with technical know-how will be useful to industries involved in heating equipment and furnace making. The data developed through experimental studies will be useful to researchers and practising engineers