Investigating Post-fire Critical Area of ship base on Numerical Fire Simulation

Abstract Ship fires are recognized as significant maritime incidents that can lead to substantial losses, including loss of life. In events where fires severely compromise a vessel’s structural integrity, the costs associated with comprehensive repairs can be exorbitant, placing considerable pressure on shipowners. Ensuring post-fire structural integrity is paramount. Therefore, it is essential to provide technical considerations that aid shipowners and classification societies in identifying critical areas of a ship’s structure that require replacement. This study aims to investigate the post-fire critical areas of ship structures through numerical fire simulations. By leveraging the properties of steel, which can undergo microstructural changes when subjected to high temperatures and rapid cooling, critical structural areas can be identified based on fire-induced heat exposure. A specific case study involving a fire incident aboard a 7,500 GT bulk carrier, triggered by the failure of an auxiliary engine, is examined. The simulations utilize on-site data and actual post-fire conditions to draw robust conclusions. The insights derived from this research are expected to enhance the understanding of the impacts of fire on ship construction and facilitate more efficient and accurate post-fire inspections.