The Cardington Fire Test

摘要

This full-scale fire test on a lean reinforced concrete frame designed to the limits of the design codes demonstrated the excellent performance of concrete structures in fire. The concrete industry has embarked on a programme of development of advanced fire design methods. The aim is to put into practice the design benefits from previous and new research and deliver more economical concrete frame construction while maintaining current high levels of safety. This will be achieved by developing new fire engineering methods from the study of whole concrete structures rather than isolated member behaviour. This takes into account the inherent fire resistance and robustness of concrete construction. Consideration of materials characteristics and structural design are required to optimise the behaviour of real concrete structures in a fire. As part of this development, a network group with an interest in developing solutions and promoting the performance benefits of concrete is to be established. Participation from researchers, specialists, design professionals, material scientists and suppliers is welcome. This important issue has highlighted the need for structural engineering and materials science knowledge to be considered together if practical knowledge is to be advanced.