Investigation of a semi-empirical load model of natural gas explosion in vented spaces

Abstract

Due to the influence of many factors, the overpressure–time history load model of vented gas explosions is difficult to describe and is not conducive to further structural design. Based on vented gas explosion test data, this paper obtains three typical overpressure-time history curves and puts forward a new semi-empirical model— double hump model that considers gas concentration and venting pressure, and gives a formula for peak pressure and overpressure–time history model. The scientificity of the model is then verified by the total impulse in the load. The model is able directly reflect the load characteristics, provide reference for calculating key parameters of a vented gas explosion and provide information on the structural response under the load. The model thereby has the potential to help reduce the impact of gas explosion disasters.

Keywords

• Vented gas explosion
• Load model
• Overpressure–time history
• Gas concentration
• Venting pressure