Analysis of the use of transformable elements in intelligent tunnel ventilation systems

Abstract

All main and auxiliary equipment in the tunnel with an intelligent ventilation system are designed to ensure the safety. These systems “talk” and “listen” to each other, make decisions to switch on/off certain system(s) or part(s) thereof and duly inform the tunnel operator, who is authorized to the centralized control of all systems of necessity. The present article uses the numerical models to assess the efficiency of the transformable elements ensuring safe operation of the tunnels. The idea of their use is based on an artificial increase of the tunnel aerodynamic resistance by means of a flexible element, which will hamper the dissemination of combustion products, but not the movement of people through the tunnel and will help isolate clean and polluted air masses. Such resistance will be used to swiftly divide the tunnel carriageway into smaller sections what will help extinguish the fire as early as at its initial stage, prolong the evacuation time and save lives during the strong uncontrollable fires. As for the compact transformable element, it can be used in both, the operating and the planned tunnels, as it in practice does not reduce the volume of valuable underground space.