Automotive Fire Analysis, Second Edition

Data involving post-crash vehicle fires has historically been involved in litigation and therefore is difficult to obtain. Outside research funding goes toward personal injury prevention studies rather than property damage prevention studies, the category into which auto fires generally fall. It is difficult and expensive for manufacturers to test for the possibility of auto fires before models are released, and if studies are done, the data is usually not readily available for fear of litigation. As fires are chaotic events it is difficult to statically model, as each fire is likely to be unique. Fire departments are not called in on the majority of auto fires and fire department and arson investigation personnel are not generally trained in the specifics of motor vehicles, so little information is available there. As auto manufacturers increasingly work toward fuel efficiency, the nature, incidence and severity of collision and non-crash auto fires is likely to worsen. In Automotive Fire Analysis: An Engineering Approach, Second Edition, experienced field engineer Gregory Barnett points out common problems with the way automotive fires are investigated. Mr. Barnett has compiled the research undertaken to date by manufacturers, standards organizations and private institutions into one compact guide. Mr. Barnett guides you through the proper techniques of vehicle fire analysis and investigation, typical vehicle fires and burn patterns, and indicators of arson in auto fires. He teaches you how to tell the difference between flame-resistant and flammable materials, the flammable liquids contained in cars, auto electrical systems and related fires, and more. This edition contains a brand new section on alternative fuel vehicles and the types of fires associated with them. He covers the current safety standards for autos, in the United States, in a clear and easy to follow manner. He gives you important information on functioning as a witness in court on auto fire cases.This edition also contains a brand new DVD with additional information and hours of video footage on auto fires and auto fire investigation.Topics include Codes and standards for automotive safety Identifying flame retardant compounds Fire behavior Signs of arson Determining burn temperature Finding burn patterns Exhaust system fires Underhood fires Electric system fires Flammable liquids Flammable and flame resistant plastics Alternative fuel vehicles Manufacturer liability Functioning as an expert witness And more!