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Primoz Kvaternik, M.Eng.

To recognize the precise value of the duration in which the construction retains its capacity, is crucial for fire-resistant design. Fire analysis calculation takes into account the actual technical state of construction material exposed to thermal impact or fire load and provide you with the critical temperature, e.g. the temperature to which the structure maintains its capacity or advice you of the optimal fire protection of the structural elements.

Why must we learn Fire Analysis?

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To recognize the precise value of the duration in which the construction retains its capacity, is crucial for fire-resistant design. Fire analysis calculation takes into account the actual technical state of construction material exposed to thermal impact or fire load and provide you with the critical temperature, e.g. the temperature to which the structure maintains its capacity or advice you of the optimal fire protection of the structural elements.

Why must we learn Fire Analysis?

On the other hand we do not want that the construction is in fire risk and does not allow a safe evacuation, as well as fire extinguishing and rescue.

Course Structure

We will learn the following topics: - What is thermal action? - How to calculate temperature of protected and unprotected steel sections - How to create load combinations for the fire limit states - How to calculate fire resistance of structural members and their critical temperature - Fire protection systems for steel structures

All chapters will also provide you with worked examples which will cover theoretical part presented. At the end you will be presented a calculation of critical temperature and required fire protection for typical structural elements of real structure.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction
Fire Analysis Course Introduction
Impact of Fire on Structure

In this lesson we will learn what is thermal action and how we consider the fire action on the structure. It will be clearly described what kind of nominal temperature-time curves are covered in Eurocodes and how they can be applied to structure.

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In this lesson we will learn how is the heat from fire compartment transferred to the structural element. We will learn three important topics here:

  • Section factor
  • Temperature of unprotected steel sections
  • Temperature of protected steel sections

In this lesson we will learn what is the section factor and why it is so important to know it for the evaluation of the speed of heating up. We will see how it differs in unprotected and protected cross sections.

In this lesson we will learn how to calculate the increase in temperature in unprotected steel element according to Eurocodes. Numerical procedure for this calculation will be clearly presented, including detailed description of all parameters and worked example.

In this lesson we will learn how to calculate the increase in temperature in protected steel element according to Eurocodes. Numerical procedure for this calculation will be clearly presented, including detailed description of all parameters and their limitations. Additionally worked example will be calculated.

In this lesson we will learn how to define fire load combination and which safety factors can be used for particular load case. We will learn general rule and simplified rule for calculating effects of actions for fire load combination. Additionally worked example will be presented.

In this lesson we will learn fire analysis using strength and temperature domain. Reduction factors for yield strength and Young's modulus at elevated temperature will be described in detail.

In this lesson we will repeat cross section classification from designing steel structures at room temperature and describe what is different in cross section classification at elevated temperature. Additionally worked examples will be presented for all four classes of cross sections.

In this lesson we will learn the calculation of the design resistance of the tension member at elevated temperature. Additionally worked example will be calculated.

In this lesson we will learn the calculation of the design resistance of the compression member with classes 1,2,3 at elevated temperature. Additionally worked example will be calculated.

In this lesson we will learn the calculation of the design shear resistance of a member with classes 1,2,3 at elevated temperature. Additionally worked example will be calculated.

In this lesson we will learn the calculation of the design moment resistance of a member with classes 1,2,3 at elevated temperature. Non-uniform temperature distribution will be explained too. Additionally worked example will be calculated.

In this lesson we will learn the calculation of the reduced design moment resistance of a member with classes 1,2,3 at elevated temperature for combined bending and shear acting together . Non-uniform temperature distribution will be explained too. Additionally worked example will be calculated.

In this lesson we will learn the calculation of the reduced design moment resistance of a member with classes 1,2,3 at elevated temperature for combined bending and axial force acting together. Additionally worked example will be calculated.

In this lesson we will learn the calculation of the critical moment for lateral torsional for uniform symetrical cross sections. Additionally worked example will be calculated.

In this lesson we will learn the calculation of the design lateral torsional buckling moment resistance of a member with classes 1,2,3 at elevated temperature. Additionally worked example will be calculated.

In this lesson we will learn the calculation of the design resistance for members with classes 1,2,3 subjected to combined bending and axial compression at elevated temperature. Additionally worked example will be calculated.

In this lesson we will learn the calculation of the design resistance for members with class 4 at elevated temperature. Additionally worked example will be calculated.

In this lesson we will learn the calculation of critical temperature for tension and bending elements. Additionally worked example will be calculated.

In this lesson we will learn the calculation of critical temperature when iterative procedure is required. Additionally worked example will be calculated.

In this lesson we will learn when fire protection is needed and which systems can be used for fire protection. We will learn also how to consider moisture in insulation.

In this lesson we will learn how to calculate fire protection and which parameters should be taken very carefully to get accurate results

In this lesson we will present the structure definition, actions on structure and description of typical structural elements which will be checked in fire analysis.

In this lesson we will calculate critical temperature and actual temperature for main beams. We will calculate also fire protection as critical temperature is reached very early and just unprotected steel section does not provide required fire resistance.

In this lesson we will calculate critical temperature and actual temperature for secondary beams. We will calculate also fire protection as critical temperature is reached very early and just unprotected steel section does not provide required fire resistance.

In this lesson we will calculate critical temperature and actual temperature for columns. As actual temperature is less than critical temperature after 30 minutes, no fire protection is needed.

In this lesson we will analyse the results of calculation. We will compare the results of fire analysis with default value of critical temperature which is usually used in many countries without knowing the exact value of the critical temperature for typical structural elements. Finally we will learn why it is so important to know the exact value of the critical temperature for optimal and safe fire design.

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Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Covers Eurocodes, which are a set of European standards that specify how structural design should be conducted, making it highly relevant for engineers working in Europe
Explores thermal action and its impact on structures, providing a strong foundation for understanding fire-resistant design principles and their practical applications in real-world scenarios
Includes worked examples that cover the theoretical part presented, which reinforces learning and helps learners apply the concepts to practical problems they may encounter
Focuses on calculating the temperature of protected and unprotected steel sections, which is essential for assessing fire resistance and ensuring structural integrity during a fire
Requires familiarity with steel structure design at room temperature, which may necessitate additional study for learners without prior experience in structural engineering principles
Teaches how to calculate fire protection, which requires careful consideration of various parameters to achieve accurate results, highlighting the need for precision and attention to detail

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Reviews summary

Fire analysis of steel structures with eurocodes

According to learners, this course provides a thorough overview of structural fire design principles for steel structures based on Eurocodes. Many highlight the worked examples as particularly helpful for understanding theoretical concepts and applying them in practice, especially for calculating temperature of protected and unprotected sections and critical temperature. Some found the explanations on topics like section factors and load combinations clear and concise. However, a few mention that the course assumes some prior structural knowledge and might be challenging for complete beginners.
Good starting point for fire analysis.
"Provides a solid foundation in the principles of fire analysis for steel structures."
"A good introductory course to get started with structural fire design."
"It gave me a good overview of what is involved in this type of analysis."
Explains core topics like temperature and critical temperature.
"The explanation of critical temperature calculation is very clear."
"Understanding the temperature increase in steel sections was well covered."
"Helpful for learning about section factors and their importance."
Includes examples demonstrating calculations.
"The worked examples are particularly useful for grasping the calculations involved."
"I found the examples in each section very helpful to follow the theory presented."
"Application of the theory through practical examples makes the concepts stick."
Focuses on calculations according to European standards.
"It follows the Eurocodes standard perfectly and explains how calculations are done according to them."
"Provides a clear path to perform fire analysis calculations adhering strictly to Eurocode standards."
"Essential for engineers working with Eurocodes in structural fire design."
May require existing structural engineering background.
"Might be difficult if you don't have a strong background in structural steel design already."
"Some parts felt advanced and assumed familiarity with structural mechanics."
"Could be challenging for someone without prior engineering study."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Fire Analysis of Steel Structures according to Eurocodes with these activities:
Review Steel Structure Design Fundamentals
Reinforce your understanding of steel structure design principles, which are essential for grasping fire analysis concepts.
Show steps
  • Review your notes on steel design.
  • Work through practice problems.
  • Identify areas where you need more review.
Read 'Structural Steel Design' by Jack McCormac
Gain a solid foundation in structural steel design, which is crucial for understanding the behavior of steel structures under fire conditions.
Show steps
  • Read the chapters on material properties and design methodologies.
  • Work through the example problems.
  • Take notes on key concepts.
Calculate Section Factors for Various Steel Shapes
Improve your ability to quickly and accurately calculate section factors, a critical parameter in determining the temperature of steel sections during a fire.
Show steps
  • Find a set of steel section dimensions.
  • Calculate the section factor for each shape.
  • Compare your results with online calculators.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a Summary of Eurocode 3 (Fire Design)
Deepen your understanding of the Eurocode 3 provisions related to fire design of steel structures by summarizing the key clauses and requirements.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of Eurocode 3 (Fire Design).
  • Read the relevant sections.
  • Summarize the key clauses and requirements.
  • Organize your summary in a logical manner.
Read 'Fire Safety Engineering Design of Structures' by John Purkiss
Expand your knowledge of fire safety engineering principles and their application to the design of fire-resistant steel structures.
Show steps
  • Read the chapters on fire dynamics and heat transfer.
  • Study the case studies.
  • Take notes on key concepts and design considerations.
Analyze the Fire Resistance of a Simple Steel Beam
Apply the concepts learned in the course to a practical problem by analyzing the fire resistance of a simple steel beam using Eurocode procedures.
Show steps
  • Select a simple steel beam configuration.
  • Determine the fire load and temperature-time curve.
  • Calculate the temperature of the steel section over time.
  • Assess the fire resistance of the beam.
Develop a Fire Protection Specification for a Steel Column
Solidify your understanding of fire protection systems by developing a detailed specification for the fire protection of a steel column in a building.
Show steps
  • Select a steel column configuration.
  • Determine the required fire resistance rating.
  • Select an appropriate fire protection system.
  • Develop a detailed specification for the system.

Career center

Learners who complete Fire Analysis of Steel Structures according to Eurocodes will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Fire Protection Engineer
A Fire Protection Engineer focuses on safeguarding people, property, and the environment from the destructive effects of fire. This often involves designing fire suppression systems, conducting fire risk assessments, and ensuring buildings comply with fire safety regulations. This course helps aspiring Fire Protection Engineers understand how fire affects steel structures, enabling the design of safer, more resilient buildings. The course's detailed examination of thermal action, temperature calculation for steel sections, and fire resistance assessment can directly inform design decisions. Furthermore, the study of fire protection systems for steel structures may guide the selection and implementation of appropriate protective measures, making this course particularly relevant.
Fire Investigator
Fire Investigators determine the origin and cause of fires, often working for insurance companies, law enforcement, or fire departments. They analyze fire scenes to understand the sequence of events and factors contributing to the fire. This course helps Fire Investigators understand how fire affects steel structures, providing insights into fire dynamics and structural failure mechanisms. This course's deep dive into thermal action and temperature calculations for steel sections may prove insightful when recreating fire events. This knowledge can aid in determining the cause and spread of a fire, as well as the performance of fire protection systems.
Structural Engineer
A Structural Engineer is responsible for the design and analysis of structures to ensure they can withstand various loads and environmental conditions. This includes considering the effects of fire on structural integrity. This course may prove valuable to Structural Engineers, providing a focus on fire analysis of steel structures. The detailed lessons on calculating temperature increases in protected and unprotected steel, as well as structural fire design in both strength and temperature domains, directly enhance a Structural Engineer's ability to design safer, more resilient buildings. Understanding fire load combinations and safety factors is vital, making this course a worthwhile investment.
Loss Prevention Specialist
Loss Prevention Specialists identify and mitigate potential hazards that could lead to property damage or other losses. They assess fire risks in various settings and recommend preventative measures. This course is a great match for Loss Prevention Specialists, providing a deep dive into the fire analysis of steel structures, thereby enhancing preventative recommendations.
Fire Safety Consultant
A Fire Safety Consultant advises clients on fire safety measures and helps them develop fire safety plans. This course helps Fire Safety Consultants by providing a deeper understanding of fire dynamics and structural behavior in fire conditions, specifically for steel structures. The detailed lessons on calculating temperature increases in protected and unprotected steel elements, along with the study of fire protection systems, enhance a consultant's ability to provide informed recommendations. The course's examination of fire load combinations and safety factors may be very helpful in developing effective fire safety strategies.
Building Inspector
A Building Inspector ensures that construction projects comply with building codes and regulations, including those related to fire safety. This course may be helpful for Building Inspectors by enhancing their understanding of fire-resistant design principles for steel structures. The course's content on calculating the temperature of protected and unprotected steel sections helps inspectors assess the adequacy of fire protection measures. Furthermore, the knowledge gained from this course is useful for identifying potential fire hazards related to steel construction, making the inspection process more thorough and informed.
Civil Engineer
A Civil Engineer designs, constructs, and maintains infrastructure projects, including buildings, bridges, and transportation systems. Fire safety is a critical consideration in the design of these structures. This course improves a Civil Engineer's capabilities in fire analysis. The course's discussion of the impact of fire on structures and methods for calculating the temperature of steel sections is directly applicable to civil engineering design. The focus on structural fire design fundamentals and fire protection systems provides practical knowledge that can be used to enhance the fire resistance of civil infrastructure.
Construction Manager
A Construction Manager oversees construction projects from start to finish, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget, while also adhering to safety regulations. Understanding fire safety principles is crucial for Construction Managers, and this course provides valuable insights. The course clarifies the structural behavior of steel in fire conditions. Furthermore, the lessons on fire protection systems and calculating temperature increases in steel elements may improve decision-making related to fire safety during construction.
Code Compliance Specialist
A Code Compliance Specialist ensures that building designs and construction projects adhere to relevant building codes and regulations, many of which pertain to fire safety. This course helps Code Compliance Specialists gain insights into fire analysis of steel structures. By offering explanations of structural fire design fundamentals, along with the analysis of critical temperatures and fire protection systems, the course arms specialists with specific knowledge, making this course a useful addition to professional development.
Risk Analyst
A Risk Analyst identifies and assesses potential risks to an organization, including those related to fire. This course may be beneficial for Risk Analysts as it delves into the fire analysis of steel structures. The course's syllabus, specifically the modules on thermal action, temperature calculation, and fire resistance, will provide the technical knowledge needed to assess fire-related risks in buildings and infrastructure. The course's emphasis on understanding fire load combinations and safety factors bolsters risk assessment capabilities.
Facilities Manager
A Facilities Manager is responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of buildings and facilities, ensuring they are safe and functional. Fire safety is a significant concern for Facilities Managers. This course enhances a Facilities Manager's knowledge of fire analysis, particularly in relation to steel structures. The focus on fire protection systems is vital for maintaining fire safety equipment. The course may improve a Facility Manager's capacity to implement effective fire safety protocols.
Materials Engineer
A Materials Engineer researches and develops new materials and processes for various engineering applications. Understanding how materials behave under different conditions, including fire, is essential. This course may be helpful for Materials Engineers as it investigates the behavior of steel structures exposed to fire. The course's examination of thermal action, temperature calculation, and fire resistance directly addresses fire safety, giving added credence to this course.
Property Insurer
A Property Insurer assesses risks associated with insuring properties, including the risk of fire damage. This course may be relevant for Property Insurers, providing a deeper understanding of fire dynamics and the behavior of steel structures in fire conditions. The detailed lessons on calculating temperature increases in protected and unprotected steel elements, along with the study of fire protection systems, is quite useful when making educated decisions.
Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability Consultants advise organizations on how to reduce their environmental impact and improve sustainability. Fire resistance and the materials used in construction are relevant factors. This course may be useful for Sustainability Consultants by offering insights into the fire analysis of steel structures. The course's focus on fire protection systems and optimized fire design may help consultants recommend sustainable building practices that also prioritize fire safety, making this course potentially helpful.
Urban Planner
An Urban Planner develops plans and strategies for the growth and development of cities and communities, considering factors like safety, sustainability, and infrastructure. This course may be helpful for Urban Planners by enabling them to understand fire safety in structural design, particularly for steel structures. The course offers added context to planning decisions.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Fire Analysis of Steel Structures according to Eurocodes.
Provides a detailed treatment of fire safety engineering principles and their application to structural design. It covers topics such as fire dynamics, heat transfer, and structural response to fire. It valuable resource for understanding the complex interactions between fire and steel structures. This book is useful as additional reading to expand on the course materials.
Provides a comprehensive overview of structural steel design principles. It covers topics such as material properties, load calculations, and design methodologies. It valuable resource for understanding the fundamentals necessary for fire analysis of steel structures. This book is commonly used as a textbook in structural engineering courses.

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