Analytical Study on the Settings and Fire Spreading Characteristics of Representative Rack Structures in Korean Logistics Facilities

Abstract

Racks are prone to catching fire and causing the fire to spread intensely owing to the vertically stacking of commodities. Their flexible characteristics, influenced by various components such as rack structures, commodity types, and loading methods, make it is challenging to establish effective fire prevention measures and countermeasures. In this study, representative rack structures were established based on the systems/guidelines derived from field surveys of approximately 40 logistics facilities in Korea. Fires were analyzed based on fire spreading characteristics, such as temperature, mass loss rate of commodities, and heat release rate of the unit racks. This series of processes and results can serve as a reference for research and development of related technologies aimed at reducing the spread of rack fires.