Consequence Assessments of a Cold BLEVE. Can We Do It Better?

Abstract

Presently in France the control authority (DREAL) in charge of the inspection of the Seveso installations requires the examination of the scenario “cold BLEVE” of very flammable liquid storages (flash point 105 Pa at 308K). The proposed case study reports the consequence analysis of a 4,800 m3 spherical isopentane storage tank. The potential cold BLEVE is characterized by a ground level cloud fire associated with a weak fireball tangential to the ground level. Estimations of the explosion energy, blast overpressure and thermal radiation effects were examined with different models. Uncertainties are carefully studied. The prescribed calculation methodology constitutes a basis for administrative decision with important consequences for the safety of population, industry and Land Use Planning.