Effect of water mist on the dispersion of a flammable gas inside traffic tunnels: an LPG experimental study
conference paper
The release of flammable gases inside a traffic tunnel can result in a hazardous atmosphere, potentially leading to explosions. The use of mechanized ventilation and water mist systems for fire protection, could improve the safety of road tunnels in case of accidents or fires by mitigating the explosive area of the released gas. The effects of water mist on the dispersion of flammable Liquified Propane Gas (LPG) inside a 1:15 scaled road tunnel is investigated to assess if specific operating conditions with ventilation and water mist could be effective in reducing the explosive area and related risk of casualties or damage. 15 different experiment scenarios were investigated which showed that steady state LPG concentration profiles could be measured at multiple longitudinal locations. This data can be used in further statistical and numerical models to evaluate the effect of ventilation speed and water mist types on the dispersion of LPG inside road tunnels. In addition the improved models can be used to further refine risk analyses required for full-ADR road tunnels.
TNO Identifier
952738
ISBN
978-1-911446-74-3
Publisher
IChemE
Source title
IChemE’s annual Hazards 30, 26-27 November 2020 (Virtual)
Collation
11 p.
Files
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