We plan, design, develop and execute experimental research projects to verify fluid/thermal performance of complex systems. Examples include:- boiling liquid expanding vapour explosions or BLEVE
- fire protection and pressure relief systems for pressure vessels containing pressure liquified hazardous materials.
- fire resistance of total containment systems for hazardous materials.
- loss of coolant accidents for high power thermal systems
- accident mechanics involving fires and explosive releases of pressure liquefied gases
We can conduct small scale to full scale fire experimental research to measure the response of systems to accidental fire heating. Our liquid fuelled burner systems provide steady and repeatable fire test conditions. This allows for direct comparison between tests. We also have extensive computer modelling expertise, including computational fluid dynamics.
We have access to remote and secure outdoor research facilities for conducting large scale hazardous experimental research. The facilities are equipped with large data acquisition and control systems, heavy lift equipment, bunkers, fire stands, and everything else needed for scientific research and experimental development.
We can design and build a custom research apparatus from the ground up.
Contact us for further details. Describe your needs and we will develop a proposal.
by ThermDyne Technologies Ltd.
BLEVE -- boiling liquid expanding vapour explosion -- a BLEVE is the explosive release of expanding vapour and boiling liquid following the catastrophic failure of a pressure vessel holding a pressure liquefied gas such as propane or LPG. A BLEVE is one of the worst possible outcomes when a propane or LPG tank is exposed to fire. BLEVE hazards include fireballs, blast, projectiles and possible toxic clouds or vapour cloud explosions. If you are a firefighter, emergency responder, plant safety professional, or a plant manager, you need to know what a BLEVE is and what it can do.
BLEVE Incident Simulation software for firefighters, emergency responders, response planners, and hazard analysts.
The BLEVE Incident Simulator (BIS) is an interactive computer program that lets you study what if with different tank sizes, different fire types and different tank protection. You will see what the hazards are including blast, projectiles, fireballs and vapour cloud explosions. With the tank thermal model you can estimate critical tank behavior in a fire, and from this develop an understanding of how pressure tanks are affected by fire impingement. The software also includes an information data base including graphic images so that users can review the critical issues.
This software is intended as a response planning tool and training simulator. Unlike training videos, this software allows you to define the scenario. This software is not intended to be a rigorous hazard analysis tool.
The BIS is based on the research of Dr. A. M. Birk P.Eng. , Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Queen's University at Kingston. He has been conducting BLEVE research since 1980 and has conducted numerous fire tests of propane tanks for the Canadian Government. Visit his Queen's University web site to see more about his fire testing and computer modelling work in the area of BLEVEs and related hazards.
You can see more details about his BLEVE research at Queen's University at: A. M. Birk PhD, BLEVE Research at Queen's University
We do not have a running demonstration version on this website. However, if you want to see what the BIS looks like try these links:
BLEVE Incident Simulator -- BIS v1.0 background information
BLEVE Incident Simulator -- BIS v1.0 static DEMO
The BIS v1.0 was developed to be an easy to use computer code for the non-expert and as a result it has its limitations. If the BIS v1.0 does not meet your specific needs, then contact us to see our custom software solutions.
Version 1.0 of the BLEVE Incident Simulator is no longer available as a product. However the technology and methods are available on a consulting and project basis.
If you would like a simulation of a specific BLEVE Incident we can do the simulation for you. A simulation with a brief report starts at $2500 (US). Contact us with your specific details.
Email your questions to: Email: sales2004-thermdyne.com (replace - with @)
ThermDyne Technologies Ltd.
If you have questions or comments please email us.
Windows XP is a Trademark of Microsoft Corporation. The BLEVE Incident Simulator is Copyright 1997-2020 by ThermDyne Technologies Ltd. All rights reserved. Made in Canada. This page was updated April 2020.