Trash Can Fire Tornado: Does It Really Happen?

In summary, the conversation discusses the phenomenon of rotating trash cans and how it affects the direction and size of a fire. It is explained that when the trash can is not moving, air is drawn in through the mesh and flows towards the fire. However, when the trash can is rotating, the air is pushed in the direction of rotation, causing the wind to move around the fire. It is also suggested that the spinning motion causes a decrease in pressure at the bottom of the flame, which increases the flow of fresh air to the fire and results in it growing larger.
  • #1
RubinLicht
132
8
Why does this happen?



When the trash can is not moving, the air gets drawn in through the mesh and flows more or less straight to the fire. I'm thinking that a rotating trashcan "pushes" the wind in the direction that it's rotating, so that the wind no longer blows towards the fire, but "around" the fire. is this correct?
 
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  • #2
but also, the fire tends to get much bigger once it starts spinning, why is that?
 
  • #3
RubinLicht said:
but also, the fire tends to get much bigger once it starts spinning, why is that?
I think the pressure at the bottom of the rotating flame (vortex) becomes lower and that increases the flow of fresh air to the burning fuel,
 
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1. Can a trash can fire really create a tornado?

Yes, it is possible for a trash can fire to create a tornado-like effect. This phenomenon is often referred to as a "fire whirl" or "fire tornado".

2. How does a trash can fire tornado form?

A trash can fire tornado forms when hot air rises rapidly from a fire and creates a vortex or spinning motion. As the vortex intensifies, it can pick up burning debris and create a tornado-like appearance.

3. Is a trash can fire tornado dangerous?

Yes, a trash can fire tornado can be dangerous as it can spread the fire to surrounding areas and cause damage. It can also potentially harm individuals who are nearby.

4. What factors contribute to the formation of a trash can fire tornado?

The main factors that contribute to the formation of a trash can fire tornado include strong winds, intense heat, and the availability of combustible materials. These factors can create the perfect conditions for a fire whirl to form.

5. How can a trash can fire tornado be prevented?

To prevent a trash can fire tornado, it is important to properly dispose of flammable materials and avoid starting fires in windy conditions. It is also important to have a fire extinguisher nearby in case a fire does occur.

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