Evaluation of Explosion Safe Distance of Steel Column Via Structural Reliability Analysis

In most studies done in the field of design of structures against explosion, uncertainties in explosive loading are not directly considered. By considering these uncertainties and using reliability analysis, more accurate and reasonable estimation of structural safety and probability of failure can be reached. In this paper, using Mont-Carlo simulation method and considering uncertainties associated with blast loading, the probability of failure of steel columns under different blast loads is calculated. Then, the minimum required protective distance is determined to prevent significant damage of structure. The single degree of freedom and finite element simulation methods are utilized for structural analysis. Finally, safe protective distances are proposed as 4.5, 9.5, 12 and 14 meters for charge weights of 30, 200, 400 and 600 kg TNT, respectively.