Performance-based Structural Fire Engineering
Target fire protection where it is actually needed.
Prescriptive fire design often leads to unnecessary protection measures. We analyze the actual behavior of the structure during a fire to determine where protection is truly needed and where it can be omitted—without compromising on safety and with clear technical substantiation.
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The reality
Structures are frequently over-protected.
For existing and complex structures, standard calculations often lead to the fire protection of entire surfaces. An analysis of the actual structural fire behavior enables a more targeted and cost-effective solution.
Without targeted analysis
Every load bearing member is protected
With targeted analysis
Protection where it is actually needed
Proven in practice
Scientifically backed.
More targeted protection. Demonstrable savings.
>150.000 m²
Unnecessary fire protection avoided
75%
Average reduction in fire protection across projects
3 countries
Project experience in Belgium, the Netherlands, and the UK
How it works
Three steps. From challenge to substantiated solution.
We start with a brief screening of your project. Only when an in-depth analysis can offer real technical or economic added value do we develop a clear scope and proposal.
1. Project Screening
You provide us with the available architectural plans, fire resistance requirements, and previously proposed measures. We assess where a targeted analysis can add value.
2. Analysis & Optimization
We model the actual behavior of the structure during a fire and compare alternative solutions based on safety, feasibility, and cost.
3. Substantiated solution
You receive concrete design or protection measures, substantiated in a transparent report.
Where needed, we support alignment with the design team and approving authorities.
Our team
Thomas Thienpont
Founder
Thomas founded Pyro Engineering as a spin-off from Ghent University, building on his research in structural fire engineering and numerical modelling. In 2023, he obtained a PhD in Civil Engineering, focusing on the structural behavior of concrete structures exposed to fire. Since then, he has worked on consultancy and engineering projects with a focus on performance-based design for both existing structures and new constructions..
Ruben Van Coile
Co-Founder
Ruben is a professor of structural fire engineering at Ghent University and a recognized expert in the field. He holds degrees in Civil Engineering, Fire Safety Engineering, and Law, and has extensive expertise in probabilistic design and advanced analysis methods. At Pyro Engineering, Ruben provides strategic and scientific support, firmly grounded in state-of-the-art research.