A simulation study has investigated how bifurcation angles affect temperature characteristics during fires in branched tunnels. This work is crucial for improving safety in complex underground infrastructures, where the propagation of smoke and heat can be significantly altered by tunnel geometry. Understanding these patterns is fundamental for designing more effective ventilation systems and evacuation strategies in case of an emergency.

The researchers used computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations to model different fire scenarios in tunnels with bifurcations at various angles. Key parameters such as temperature distribution, air velocity, and smoke concentration in the different tunnel branches were analyzed. The results showed that the bifurcation angle has a considerable influence on how heat and combustion products are distributed, creating areas of higher or lower thermal risk.

The study identified that sharper bifurcation angles can lead to more intense heat accumulation in certain areas, while wider angles can facilitate faster dispersion of heat and smoke. These findings provide valuable data for engineers and designers, allowing them to optimize tunnel configurations and fire control systems. The validation of these models with full-scale experimental data will be the next step to refine these predictions and ensure their practical applicability.