Service
Performance-Based Design and Fire Modeling
When a building cannot meet a prescriptive requirement, the code offers a path: show the fire marshal, with analysis, that the alternative provides equivalent protection. That path runs through the 2021 International Fire Code (IFC) §104.10 and, for larger questions, the performance-based option in NFPA 101 (2021) Chapter 5.
IgnitionTech builds the fire model, runs the egress analysis, and writes the technical report that gives the AHJ a defensible basis to approve the alternative. Where the jurisdiction requires a sealed engineering document, IgnitionTech coordinates the review and seal through a licensed engineer in that state.
What IgnitionTech delivers
- Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS) and CFD models with documented inputs, design fires, and sensitivity cases
- Tenability analysis (visibility, temperature, and toxic gas) and egress modeling with ASET and RSET comparison
- Technical assistance reports under IFC §104.8.2 and alternative materials and methods requests under §104.10
- Peer review of third-party fire models and performance-based submittals
- Coordination of the engineering seal where the jurisdiction requires one
Who receives and approves it
The fire marshal, the building official, the architect of record, and the licensed engineer who seals the final report where required.
Codes and standards
- 2021 IFC §104.8.2 and §104.10; 2021 IBC §104.11
- NFPA 101 (2021) Chapter 5 (performance-based option) and the SFPE Engineering Guide to Performance-Based Fire Protection
- NFPA 92 (2021) for smoke control, NFPA 204 (2021) for smoke and heat venting
- FDS and Smokeview, with inputs documented to the SFPE Guidelines for Substantiating a Fire Model for a Given Application
Editions shown are the current Texas baseline. The edition adopted by the project jurisdiction, with its amendments, governs each project and is confirmed at kickoff.
Request a project review
Describe the building and the deadline.
IgnitionTech replies with the code path, the documents the jurisdiction will expect, and a proposed scope. Correction letters and permit deadlines go to the front of the queue.
Prefer the phone? 713-491-6539
Need a second service on the same project?
Most projects pair two or three of these. One scope, one point of contact.