This paper summarises a generalised study of hazards associated with flammable liquids using CFD (computation fluid dynamics) to predict vapor conditions within a tank or following a spill. The analysis was verified in laboratory testing using scaled tank geometries. A demonstration case was developed using diesel fuel in a locomotive fuel tank. As the locomotive consumes fuel, large volumes are available for vapor generation within the tank. In a post-collision scenario the vapor that vents to the atmosphere presents a significant fire hazard. Further, flammable mists can be generated by the sprays that develop due to fuel leaks from a moving train. A CFD analysis was applied to the geometry associated with a locomotive fuel tank. The analysis models the two phase flow using the volume of fluid formalism in Fluent, and using a user defined diesel fuel evaporation algorithm. The tank and environmental parameters included fuel volume, fuel temperature, and air flow within the tank, and critical values of vapor content, temperature and velocity were plotted. The analysis predicted ignition of the external vapor cloud at temperatures relevant to a spill in a summer environment in the Southwest, and propagation of the flame into the fuel tank. Laboratory testing confirmed the analysis. Once ignited, a flame propagated into the tank, causing an explosion and fire. The analysis methods developed can be applied to a variety of geometries and fluids, providing a basis for full scale testing. The overall intent of the analysis is to aid in the development of fire mitigation approaches for fuel and flammable material transport that would be practical for railroad use.
Computer simulation and validation of fire hazards in fuel tanks
2007
9 Seiten, 8 Bilder, 1 Tabelle, 3 Quellen
Conference paper
English
JRC/ICE2007-40085 Computer Simulation and Validation of Fire Hazards in Fuel Tanks
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