Development of an interface between CFD and FE software

The paper presents the assumptions and the issues that arise when developing an integrated modelling methodology between a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software applied to compartment fires and a Finite Element (FE) software applied to structural systems. In particular, a weak coupling approach used to simulate a fire exposed structure by modelling the fire development in the compartment, the heat penetration in the structure and the mechanical response is described. The advantages and the disadvantages of such a technique are highlighted compared to a full coupling that conversely takes into account all mutual interactions. The favourable aspect of computing the thermal response of the structure in the FE model in order to avoid modelling the structure in the CFD model is underlined, namely a sensitive reduction of computational demand. Finally, a practical application is presented.