Prediction of gas explosion overpressure in pipe using ME model

Based on the analysis of the characteristics of gas explosion overpressure in pipe, the ME model was used to predict the overpressure in pipe. The ME model was revised on the basis of the law of conservation of energy and the resembling law of explosion energy to eliminate the error caused by using the original ME model to evaluate gas explosion overpressure in pipe. Then combined with the explosion blast reflecting theory the calculation methods of gas explosion overpressure in one end closed pipe were presented. In order to verify the revised ME model, calculated data were compared with experiment data and the data simulated with CFD software. Cylindrical and square experimental tubes were used. The diameter of the cylindrical tube was 2 m, and the width of the square tube was 80 mm. When carrying out the experiments, firstly some types of pressure sensors were installed at different places of the tube. Then methane mixed with air was filled in the tube. Explosion overpressure can be measured with the data acquisition and analyzing system. The simulated tunnel was square which was 1.77 m wide and 30 m long, The tunnel was closed in one end and open in the other. The concentration of methane in the tunnel was 8.5%. The filling length of methane was 6 m. The results showed that the calculated data coincided with experiment data and that there was good agreement between the calculated data and simulated data. The calculation methods can be used for risk analysis and assessment of flammable gas explosion accidents in pipe. It can also provide important reference for the design of explosion relief venting and safety measures against the effects of gas explosion in pipe.