Investigation of Otto Fuel Explosion Accident
Abstract
An accidental explosion involving a torpedo test vehicle occurred at a test facility in February 1995. The test vehicle was operating in a 3 inch thick pressure vessel when the incident occurred. The pressure vessel failed catastrophically with the resulting high speed fragments causing extensive damage to the reinforced concrete test cell. The 18 inch thick cell walls and roof were completely perforated by the fragments. An investigation was performed to document the damage and assist the Navy in determining the cause of the accident. This investigation included reconstruction of the pressure vessel and major portions of the test vehicle. Calculations were performed to estimate the source energy necessary to produce the observed damage. These calculations included empirical methods as well as hydrocode simulations. Materials testing was performed on the pressure vessel and concrete elements to determine properties for use in the calculations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 20, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADA509562
Entities
People
- Darrell D. Barker
- Quentin A. Baker