Dynamic response of spherical tanks subjected to the explosion of hydrogen-blended natural gas

Abstract

Hydrogen is a renewable and clean energy and obtains increasing attention all around the world. Blending hydrogen into natural gas can promote hydrogen development and storage tank farms play an essential role in the storage of hydrogen-blended natural gas (HBNG). However, upon leakage from the tank, HBNG accumulates to create a vapor cloud and may explode, resulting in more severe consequences than natural gas. Furthermore, the explosion has the potential to trigger the domino effect in the spherical tank storage area, leading to multiple explosions. But little attention has been paid on this research issue. This article analyzes the dynamic response of the spherical tank exposed to HBNG explosions. The fluid–structure interaction theory is adopted to establish the whole finite element model. Meanwhile, the advanced Arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian (ALE) method can reduce mesh distortion and enhance computational accuracy, and the process of explosion is analyzed through the coupling of the Lagrangian mesh for the structure and the Eulerian mesh for the vapor cloud. Then, the algorithm is employed that couples shell elements with solid elements by utilizing a penalty function. Besides, the dynamic response of the spherical tank and pillar surfaces is analyzed in the trends of effective stress, displacement, velocity, and structural damage under various parameters, evaluating the energy absorbed by the spherical tank and pillar. Accordingly, the equipment damage caused by HBNG explosions considering possible damage caused by secondary explosions can be obtained. Then, the effects of the HBNG explosion chain on equipment are analyzed in tank areas. The dynamic response of structures in the explosion is closely related to the different hydrogen blended ratios, distances, and structural thickness, which significantly impact the effective stress of the spherical tank and pillar. Moreover, the damage caused by the HBNG explosion is more serious for pillars than the spherical tank, making the role of pillars crucial in supporting the spherical tank. The results obtained in this study can be used to support the design and safety operation of HBNG storage areas.