Advanced CFD modeling on vapor dispersion and vapor cloud explosion

The main objective of this study is to quantify the potential overpressures due to Vapor Cloud Explosions (VCEs) and the potential gas buildup by using Computation Fluid Dynamics (CFD) for onshore or offshore facilities. A series of CFD simulations and analyses have been performed for the various vapor dispersion scenarios, covering different release rates and release locations. The overpressure that could result from the potential VCE is assessed by CFD simulation for the largest explosive transient gas cloud. The results from the analyses also comprise an extensive picture of probable leak scenarios having the potential to make an explosive gas cloud. The CFD analysis results could be applied to provide input for detailed risk-based design and risk analysis, to find safe and cost-optimal design against explosions. (C) 2010 Published by Elsevier Ltd.