Research on the dynamics of flame propagation and overpressure evolution in full-scale residential gas deflagration

Abstract

To determine the effect of ignition height on indoor flame spread behavior and overpressure development, a comprehensive full-scale deflagration testing facility was established. Extensive experimental research was conducted within this facility. The findings indicate that indoor flame reignition and the occurrence of secondary explosions are most pronounced with intermediate ignition. Furthermore, the explosion overpressure generated during the reverse turn of shock wave propagation is greater than that produced by the forward turn. In comparison to the peak overpressure Pext in the master bedroom for top, middle, and bottom ignition, the peak overpressure Pext in the second bedroom increased by approximately 14.48 %, 15.04 %, and 19.20 %, respectively. When comparing middle ignition to top ignition, the propagation speed of shock waves in the kitchen balcony, restroom, second bedroom, and master bedroom was enhanced by 34.21 %, 40.85 %, 40.70 %, and 34.65 %, respectively. Furthermore, when comparing middle ignition to bottom ignition, the propagation speed of shock waves in these areas experienced a significant increase of 126.32 %, 124.39 %, 123.26 %, and 113.86 %, respectively. These research findings provide a theoretical foundation and empirical data to support the investigation and analysis of the causes of indoor gas explosion incidents.

Keywords

• Gas explosion
• Full-scale experiments
• Ignition height
• Non-uniform premixing
• Accident investigation