Test Details
Test Purpose
This test is used to determine whether a material in a process configuration can transition from a burn type event (1.3) to a explosion type event (1.1). Substances are initiated in a process (ideally in a plausible worst case) configuration. Assessments can be made on the results of the test including the violence of the event (1.1, 1.3, etc), facility damage, and environmental risks. Note that changes in process configuration may warrant a retest.
Modeling can be coupled with small-scale tests to accurately estimate the outcome of initiation for the in-process scenario. Large scale in-process tests can be expensive. Coupling modeling with small-scale test results can accurately estimate the outcome including determining the necessary vent sizes and types in the process equipment. Small scale tests would include critical height and substance burn parameter determinations (amount of gas produced per kilogram, burn rate, etc.).
Initial Reaction Example Video
The below video is of simulated oven in with the same process configuration tested to determine the outcome should the oven be heated to the point of initiation of the contents.
Modified Process Video
Following the initial test of the simulated oven, a sprinkler system was installed to determine the outcome of the over-temperature initiation with the sprinkler system installed. It was desired to reduce the flames outside the oven. Below is the result.
Type Test Example Video
Below is a video of a hopper containing propellant in the in-process condition when the propellant is intentionally ignited. Such type testing is completed to determine the reaction violence in the in-process scenario. Note that different conditions (vent size, confinement, etc) as well as different propellants can yield different outcomes. In the case below, the reaction is a 1.3 type event. With other conditions or propellants, the reaction can be a 1.1 event.
