Open AccessSolid Fuel-Burning Appliance Fire Investigations
Author(s) -
Joseph G. Leane
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
journal of the national academy of forensic engineers
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.102
H-Index - 1
eISSN - 2379-3252
pISSN - 2379-3244
DOI - 10.51501/jotnafe.v34i1.41
Subject(s) - stove , backup , chimney (locomotive) , architectural engineering , active fire protection , engineering , waste management , environmental science , forensic engineering , fossil fuel , solid fuel , fire protection , combustion , civil engineering , mechanical engineering , smoke , chemistry , organic chemistry
Solid fuel-burning fireplaces and wood stoves are popular because they provide heat and aesthetically pleasing environments. They also provide backup heat to gas, electric, and oil building heating systems. However, if they are not properly installed and maintained, they pose a risk of structure fires. This paper describes the basics of conducting a forensic engineering investigation of a building fire involving a suspected fireplace or wood stove. The paper examines the types of appliances available, the types of chimney systems, and related design standards and building codes. Case studies (highlighting common failure modes) are also presented.