Prediction of BLEVE loading on structures

Abstract

In a previous study by the authors, rigid structure assumption, as commonly used in analysing blast wave interaction with structures, was adapted in investigating the Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapour Explosion (BLEVE) pressure wave interaction with structures to predict BLEVE loads on structures. However, real structures are not rigid and the duration of BLEVE wave is much longer than that from high explosives and may be in the order of structural natural vibration period. Neglecting structural deformation, therefore, may lead to inaccurate predictions of BLEVE loads acting on the structure because structural deformation during the action of BLEVE wave would change the wave and the structure interaction. In this study, intensive numerical simulations are carried out using a validated computer model to investigate the influences of structural stiffness and BLEVE wave duration on the reflected BLEVE pressure on the structure. Based on the numerical results, prediction charts are proposed as a function of the BLEVE wave duration and structural fundamental vibration period for reliable predictions of BLEVE loads on structures. The findings of this study can be used to predict explosion loads in structural design against BLEVE.