Prediction of fireball consequences caused by Boilover occurrence in the atmospheric storage tanks

Although Boilover occurs with a low frequency, but in case of occurrence, it can cause severe damage to people and equipment around the tank. The prediction of the fireball of Boilover phenomenon has an important role to play in adopting appropriate strategies for fire suppression of the atmospheric storage tank. The purpose of this study is to predict the consequence of fireball caused by Boilover phenomenon using empirical models.

This is a descriptive-analytic study. At first, empirical models presented for prediction of the Boilover consequence were identified. Then, the models used to predict the fireball geometry and its radiation heat flux around the tank. The results of model predictions were compared with the data of a small-scale experimental study and a large-scale real Boilover accident.

According to the results, the error of the INERIS and Buang model for predictions of radiation heat flux around the experimental Boilover were 23 and 31%, respectively. The error of these two models predictions of radiation heat flux of accident were 52% and 71%, respectively.

The INERIS and Buang models showed a lower error for prediction of the Boilover fireball consequences compared to other models. The results of this study can be used to assess the risk of Boilover in atmospheric storage tanks and help accident commander’s decision on strategies and tactics for the fire suppression of atmospheric storage tanks.