Tunnel Fires – Devastating!
17/10/2003
In March 1996, a lorry fire in Switzerland’s Mont Blanc Tunnel triggered a major disaster. The ensuing conflagration reached a temperature of 1,000ºC in just ten minutes and cost the lives of 38 people and the loss of 37 vehicles.
In 1999, a train fire in the Channel Tunnel resulted in the incineration of nine carriages and severe damage to 800 metres of tunnel. Total losses amounted to £200m. The intense heat caused the spalling of 450mm of concrete in some wall sections, leaving just 50mm remaining. Fortunately, the surrounding substrate was sufficiently stable to prevent structural collapse and even greater devastation.
Both catastrophes are highlighted on a CR-ROM entitled ‘The devastating nature of fires in tunnels’ produced by Alfreton based passive fire protection (PFP) systems manufacturer Cafco International.
The CD-ROM is accompanied by documentation explaining how such tragedies can be avoided through the use of Cafco PFP systems, which enhance life safety, prevent environmental damage and waste and protect valuable investments.
Copies of the CD-ROM are available free of charge and can be obtained from Cafco International.
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