Storage tank response to large-scale blast: Validation of numerical analysis

Abstract

To predict the consequences of large-scale explosions, it is desirable to understand the response of various industrial and civil structures to blast loading. To this end, a numerical study was undertaken to investigate the sensitivity of response of one such class of structure, storage tanks, to the following factors: geometry, fill level and loading. In support of this study, a series of scaled tests was conducted. These tests were used to confirm key damage mechanisms and provide validation data. Output from subsequent simulations of the scaled tests showed good agreement with equivalent experimental results. An outline of the initial numerical study, a description of the experimental programme and an overview of the subsequent validation exercise are presented and discussed.