Evaluation of VCE Impact from LPG Spherical Tank

Abstract

Vapor Cloud Explosion (VCE) occurs when there is a release of Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) between the upper and lower explosion concentration limits and the mixture is exposed to an ignition source. The VCE gives rise to the following effects: (1) blast wave and (2) thermal radiation. The world has witnessed many VCE incidents due to processing of LPG. This study aims to evaluate the VCE impacts which could result in from large LPG spherical tank in an oil Refinery. The objective is to evaluate the potential blast wave overpressure and thermal radiation hazards associated with such events. Two widely recognized explosion consequence models — TNT equivalency and the TNO Multi‑Energy models — were employed to estimate explosion impacts at various tank fill levels up to 85% capacity. The predicted overpressure and radiation effects were analysed at multiple distances, with particular focus on the 500 m impact radius. Results indicate notable variation between model predictions, with the TNT model producing more conservative overpressure estimates than the TNO model. Findings reveal that explosion consequences could lead to structural damage to light industrial buildings and severe thermal exposure risks to workers and nearby communities. The study highlights the importance of integrating quantitative explosion modelling into refinery layout design, emergency planning, and land‑use regulation to minimize industrial and societal risks.