Infrared Imaging Software for Jet Fire Analysis

Abstract

Jet fires, often originated by the ignition of hydrocarbon sonic jets, are characterized by a high momentum jet flame lifted from the outlet orifice. The high thermal flux released, especially if there is flames impingement on a given equipment, can lead to a domino effect. Therefore, predicting its size and shape is quite interesting in order to foresee the possibility of this effect on a given equipment. Several mathematical models have been proposed to predict jet fires main features, some of them based on experimental data. However, the analysis of jet flames can be sometimes difficult. In this communication, an in-house infrared imaging software for jet fire analysis is presented, which allows the calculation of different flame-geometry descriptors. A set of capabilities are included in a graphical user-friendly interface that can help users to easily obtain fire metrics. The tool also provides options to export the results for a post-processing analysis useful for risk prevention, such as preventive design and calculation, and emergency protocols design.