Radiant Heat Transfer: View Factor
Compute geometric configuration factors between fire sources and target surfaces using 3D integration logic. Critical for justifying reduced setbacks or unprotected header areas under AS 1530.4.
Learn morePrecision Fire Engineering Tools for Australian Practitioners
Validated calculation modules built to support Performance-Based Design. Replace fragmented spreadsheets with transparent, repeatable models aligned with NCC 2022 requirements.
Professional Notice: FISHTANK tools are intended for use by qualified fire safety engineers to inform preliminary assessments and engineering judgement. All outputs must be verified against project-specific conditions before regulatory submission.
Performance-Based Design & NCC Compliance
Performance Solutions vs. Deemed-to-Satisfy (DtS)
Navigating the National Construction Code (NCC) 2022 requires a clear distinction between Deemed-to-Satisfy (DtS) provisions and Performance Solutions. While DtS offers a prescriptive path, FISHTANK tools are built to support the development of robust Performance Solutions.
By leveraging established fire science correlations, our tools provide the analytical evidence required to justify departures from prescriptive requirements while maintaining life safety objectives.
Key Benefits
- Transparent Assumptions: Every formula and reference is explicitly stated in calculation logs.
- Audit-Ready: Exportable logs for direct inclusion in Fire Engineering Reports (FER).
- NCC Aligned: Default values and terminology calibrated for Australian practitioners.
Core Engineering Modules
Time Equivalent Fire Severity (t_e)
Relate real compartment fires to a standard ISO 834 fire test duration. Justify FRL requirements based on actual fire load density, ventilation, and thermal inertia (EN 1991-1-2 Annex E).
Learn moreRSET(PS) vs. RSET(DtS) Comparison
Demonstrate that a Performance Solution (PS) provides equivalent safety to the Deemed-to-Satisfy (DtS) baseline. Quantify impacts of enhanced detection or management on total evacuation time.
Learn moreHRR Plotter: t-Squared Design Fires
Construct Q = α t² growth curves for any design fire scenario. Reference standard growth rates and export precise HRR profiles for direct input into CFD or zone models.
Learn moreFrequently Asked Questions
What is a view factor?
A view factor (geometric configuration factor) represents the proportion of radiation leaving one surface that is intercepted by another. It is used to calculate incident radiant heat flux (kW/m²) from fire sources to target building boundaries.
What is the t-squared fire model?
The t-squared fire model (Q = α t²) approximates the growth phase of a fire, assuming heat release rate increases proportionally to the square of time. The intensity coefficient (α) reflects the fuel type and arrangement.
What is RSET(PS) vs RSET(DtS)?
This is a Performance Solution methodology comparing the evacuation time of the engineered design (PS) against the prescriptive baseline (DtS). It is used to demonstrate equivalent safety when travel distances or exit widths depart from NCC provisions.
What is equivalent time of fire exposure?
A method (EN 1991-1-2) comparing real compartment fire severity to the ISO 834 standard fire resistance test duration. It allows engineers to determine if a specific FRL is adequate for the actual fire load and ventilation conditions.
How do DtS and Performance Solutions relate to NCC compliance?
Buildings comply via prescriptive DtS rules or engineered Performance Solutions. FISHTANK tools provide the quantitative analysis required to justify Performance Solutions under the NCC 2022 assessment pathway.
Ready to Build Your Performance Solution?
Get instant access to all calculation modules with a free engineer account.