Abstract
Aim: The aim of this paper is to reveal the main fire hazards associated with the use of enclosed fireplace chambers and the need to comply with fire protection regulations when installing such appliances. Described fire hazards, associated with the use of fireplaces, are based on evidence from actual incidents. The article describes basic properties and mechanisms associated with the burning of wood. Additionally, it reveals fundamental inconsistencies and failures found during the installation and use of fireplaces.
Introduction: During recent years there is an increasing interest in the purchase and installation of fireplaces in Poland. Progressively, these are acquired on economic grounds, because they provide the cheapest sources of heating. Fireplace installations have now become standard equipment found in homes. Over 90% of currently installed fireplaces have enclosed combustion chambers. Exploitation of such a chamber affords a significant increase in furnace efficiency in the region of 20% to 80%, which is comparable to the efficiency of solid fuel boilers.
Methodology: Case studies dealing with fire incidents, which culminated in large losses of property and caused a threat to life, provide excellent reference material, facilitating the establishment of ground rules for fire safety in our daily lives. Illustrations of fire incidents caused by construction errors and human carelessness reveal human naivety and conviction that a competent craftsman is still in desired. Above all, author’s research has revealed that in circumstances when wood-based materials are used in the construction e.g. fireplace surround, special attention should be paid to maintaining appropriate distances between the fireplace combustion chamber and encompassing surround. Elements of the flue attain very high temperature levels, which by far exceed the self-ignition temperature level of wood-based products. The rate of carbonization decreases as the distance from a heat source increases. The nature of material has no bearing on the rate of carbonisation if the distance is changing, except for one setting where the influence of material type is clearly visible.
Conclusions: During the exploitation of enclosed fireplaces it is necessary to be conscious of specific conditions, which accompany their use. The operating environment includes the existence of an open fire, hot air and equipment heated up to very high temperature levels. For this reason it is very important that the fireplaces should be of a sound construction and made from high quality materials. Before acquisition, prospective customers should acquaint themselves with the construction and operating procedures. It is also important to be aware of fire hazards, which result from high temperatures, especially in buildings constructed from wood.
Keywords: fire hazard, fireplace, fire
Type of article: case study