The Problem
A technology developer operating a confined gas processing system required a detailed
assessment of explosion risks involving methane, hydrogen, and acetylene. The system
was housed within a container, and the client needed to understand potential
overpressure effects on both personnel and infrastructure, including whether the
container could withstand internal explosions.
We were selected for our expertise in explosion modelling, particularly our ability to
select the most appropriate modelling technique and interpret overpressure impacts
using industry data and UK HSE guidance.
My Approach
We conducted a comprehensive explosion modelling study using:
- TNT equivalence methodology to estimate explosive energy based on gas composition and calorific values.
- Spreadsheet-based modelling derived from HSE guidance to calculate overpressure distances and hazard zones.
- Scenario analysis for mixed gases, acetylene-only, and methane-only cases.
- Assessment of container integrity, estimating internal pressure rise and comparing it against known damage thresholds.
All findings were presented in a structured report, including hazard distances, fatality likelihoods, and recommendations for safe design and layout.
The Result
The study delivered:
- Quantified hazard distances for each gas scenario, supporting safe siting and layout decisions.
- Confirmation that small-scale explosions within the container are unlikely to cause catastrophic failure, even under conservative assumptions.
- Identification of fatality risk zones, enabling informed decisions on personnel protection and asset placement.
- A robust technical foundation for future risk assessments and regulatory engagement.
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