Numerical Models for Use in the Design of Protective Clothing for Firefighters

A numerical model of the heat transfer in firefighters' protective clothing is used to demonstrate the roles of important fabric properties under different conditions. The effects of material properties during short duration, high heat flux exposures are compared to the effects of these same properties during long duration, lower heat flux exposures. In addition, the importance of fabric properties on the rates at which garments cool after an exposure are also explored. The results demonstrate the utility of numerical models in the design of protective clothing and promote a greater understanding of the protection that is offered to firefighters by their clothing.