Design of Passive Structural Systems to Resist Hazard Division (HD) 1.3 Deflagrations
Abstract
HD 1.3 materials and munitions are those which do not mass detonate, but instead present a fire hazard and either a minor explosive hazard or a minor projectile hazard, or both. HD 1.3 materials usually burn quite vigorously, producing a rapidly expanding fireball. In relatively unconfined situations, the HD 1.3 material will burn but will produce no significant overpressures. In more confined situations, pressures may be sufficient to blow out typical blast-frangible panels. In either case, a HD 1.3 deflagration inside a building results in fireball that expands through doors, corridors, and windows, into areas of the building that might normally be considered to be well protected from conventional explosions. The Huntsville Division, US Army Corps of Engineers, has developed a design guide for passive structural systems to resist the effects of HD 1.3 deflagrations. This design guide is based on both theoretical literature and actual test and accident reports, and contains methods for developing design criteria for structures. This paper summarizes the procedures and recommendations promulgated in the design guide. Basic HD 1.3 deflagration behavior is discussed. Design concepts for new structures and retrofitting existing structures are presented. The concept of confinement-type versus non-confinement-type structures is discussed. Recommendations are provided for production facilities, storage facilities, possible detonations, and fragment and firebrand hazards. Where applicable, computational design criteria procedures will be outlined. Future research and testing will also be discussed.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1994
- Accession Number
- ADA506891
Entities
People
- Joseph M. Serena Iii
Organizations
- United States Army Corps of Engineers