Refining Hydrogen VCE Modeling Approaches

Hydrogen is a key energy carrier for modern society. The breaking of the hydrogen bonds within traditional hydrocarbon molecules has been the primary mode of energy utilization since the industrial revolution. An increased focus on “net-zero” greenhouse gas emissions, specifically carbon dioxide and methane, has resulted in a global push for lower carbon energy vectors, including pure hydrogen. Accurately modeling the dispersion, fire and explosion hazards associated with new and existing hydrogen production, distribution and transportation networks, and consumption is a key component to the safe expansion of these networks.

BakerRisk performed a series of very lean hydrogen-air vapor cloud explosion (VCE) tests as part of an internal research effort. The goal of these tests was to better understand the VCE hazards associated with very lean hydrogen-air mixtures (≤14% H₂). Flame speeds and blast loads were measured using high speed video and an array of dynamic pressure transducers. This paper discusses the test setup and test results, including a comparison with data from prior congested tests. The measured flame speeds are compared to those predicted using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis and referenced to deflagration-to-detonation (DDT) criteria. Discussion regarding the application of these test results and uncongested turbulent jet test results to facility siting studies is also provided.