Simplified method for estimating the effect of a hydrogen explosion on a nearby pipeline

Abstract

To predict the effect of hydrogen gas tank explosions on nearby pipelines, we first evaluate the increase in air pressure and velocity on a pipeline after a strong explosion. Then, we calculate the bending of an initially straight pipe. We investigate the bending amplitude for various exploded masses of hydrogen, distances measured from the explosion center to the pipeline, and thicknesses of steel pipeline walls. The proposed analytic approach provides a conservative estimate of the worst-case accident scenario involving an instantaneous explosion of a large hydrogen mass leading to the formation of a shock wave. The results may be useful for plant engineers to evaluate the risks associated with pipelines under the presumed explosion scenario of not only hydrogen, but also any other fuel types. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.