Ancillary Mechanical, Hydraulic and Thermal Facilities

Fire Testing Facility
Parent Body: University of Manchester, Manchester School of Engineering, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL

Principal Functions
Furnace fire tests of panels, pipes and assemblies.

Subsidiary Functions
Research into fire resistant materials, furnace characteristics etc.

Specification
The facility includes three furnaces, the largest of which is housed in its own purpose built building. The working volumes are:

• Furnace 1: 1.0m × 1.0m × 1.0m
• Furnace 2: 1.5m × 1.5m × 1.5m
• Furnace 3: 3.0m × 3.0m × 1.5m

The three furnaces are all computer-controlled and all readings are recorded electronically. The time-temperature responses are available visually at run-time. Any time-temperature curve can be followed including hydrocarbon, (e.g. NPD).

Special Features
Support staff for the operation of the facility are available. Video recording is available.

Availability
The facility is available to other bodies in both the private and public sector. There are no restrictions on the type of body that can apply to use the facility. A few days advance notice is required when asking for time on the facility. Time is allocated as available.

Charging Basis
Published charging rates are available, but these can be subject to individual negotiation. There is a possibility of negotiating an exchange agreement.

Site Access
The site has ready access for vehicles and local accommodation is available for the hirer’s staff.

Contact Information
Professor J M Davies
University of Manchester
Manchester School of Engineering
Oxford Road
Manchester
M13 9PL
Telephone:  0161 275 4434   Fax:  0161 275 4361
E-mail:  jmdavies@fs1.eng.man.ac.uk