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EDISON PHONOGRAPH MONTHLY, JANUARY, 1915
13
Buffing Department (low building in foreground) saved. Also Horn Making Department, saved. Plant and Cabinet Shop in Background.
Film
HOW THE CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION WITHSTOOD THE ORDEAL
MUCH has been said in press reports of a sensational nature regarding the behavior of the concrete structures affected by the Edison fire. There is no question that it was a most severe test. The impression, however, has been given that they had completely failed. This is not true; it is an exaggeration. On this subject the Engineering Record, one of the foremost engineering journals in this country, has this to say editorially:
"The most important conclusion regarding the reinforced cement buildings that went through the Edison fire is a costly verification of one of the fundamentals of fire protection practice. This conclusion should be preached from the housetops — that when structures are exposed to fire hazard from without it is folly to place one's trust in "fireproof" buildings fitted with wooden windowsash and plain glass. The Edison concrete buildings were considered 'fireproof,' but can be called so onjy by courtesy. They were not fireproof, except in the sense that they themselves would not burn. They were virtually concrete stoves with tinder at every window, inviting the application of the torch.
"As for the performance of the concrete building in so severe a test, one can happily report that they came through very well. It is safe to say that four of the seven are in their entirety, usable. In two of the remaining buildings the damage is local, affecting parts of floors, while in the third the columns in the first floor are in very bad condition.
"Whether the failure of these sections to withstand the ordeal is due to the duration and severity of the fire or due to the water thrown on them
while hot is an interesting problem. The Engineering Record believes that the water played a critical role.
"Regardless of this view all can agree that no structure, no matter what the type, should be called upon to stand such a test. The fundamental question is not as to the type that makes the best stove for inflammable contents, but what methods will prevent a spread of the flames. Fire resisting window and door construction, fire walls, and above all, sprinklers, furnish the answer."
Those further interested will find the Engineering Record of December 19, 1914, from which the above partial editorial is quoted, also contains an illustrated Supplement showing the effects of the fire upon the Edison buildings, together with a technical discussion of the same.
No. 24 Building — Northwest end — showing effect of
fire and water on concrete. This end seriously
damaged.