The invention relates to a fire simulation facility which accurately reproduces the thermodynamic and thermochemical parameters of a fire under controllable conditions. The facility utilizes a combination of a radiative and a convective heat source. The radiative source utilizes electrical resistance heater heating and a radiating surface having an emissivity of 0.8 to 0.9 or greater. The convective source generates hot gases in the form of chemical combustion products. The fire simulator also includes instrumentation for controlling the heat flux emanating from the heat sources.
