(131a) Key Findings of Experimental and Theoretical Studies On Forced Mitigation System for an LNG Spill Emergency

Mitigation techniques have been categorized as one of the essential elements that require further investigation in determining the potential impact on public safety from an LNG spill (USGAO 2007). Several outdoor LNG spill experiments were conducted at the Brayton Fire Training Field to verify the effectiveness of the direct application of a water spray on LNG vapors as a part of LNG Safety and Spill Response research at Mary Kay O’Connor Process Safety Center (MKOPSC) at Texas A&M University (TAMU). Theoretical modeling was conducted of LNG forced mitigation using an upward-oriented conical water spray application. The computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model had been applied to investigate the dominant physical mechanisms involved in LNG forced mitigation and essential key design parameters were evaluated. Findings from the experimental and theoretical analysis on the LNG forced mitigation are summarized. Finally, recommendations on designing an effective forced mitigation system and potential hazards of applying the water curtain system are discussed. This work aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the forced mitigation system with direct application for LNG facilities.

USGAO (2007). Public Safety Consequences of a Terrorist Attack on a Tanker Carrying Liquefied Natural Gas Need Clarification (Maritime Security GAO-07-316), United States Government Accountability Office. Washington, D.C.