Resistance of Module Structures to Blast and Fire Loading

Abstract

Abstract During the course of a blast incident a module structure and plant will be required to withstand blast overpressure, drag loading, and possibly projectile impact. A fire may subsequently occur adding load to a potentially blast damaged structure. In response to the Cullen Enquiry into the Piper Alpha incident in the North sea the authors developed a structural design philosophy for application to new designs and the assessment of existing platforms. Although primarily developed for offshore structures it is also applicable to onshore plant. This paper outlines a design philosophy for blast overpressure, drag and fire loading. Potential projectile impact energy design criteria and the results of some impact tests on typical materials are described.