Thermal radiation from LNG spill fires

Abstract

Seven 6-ft, six 20-ft, and one 80-ft fire tests were conducted. In each case, a circular earth dike having a 1.5-ft rim was constructed and LNG was poured to a level of 6 to 8 in. and ignited. Pertinent recorded experimental data for each 6- and 20-ft test consisted of: (1) flame heights and angles of tilt, from movie films; (2) wind velocity at 5-ft and 50-ft levels; (3) wind direction; (4) LNG level variation with time using float level gauges; (5) wide-angle radiometer readings at various locations; (6) narrow-angle radiometer readings at one or two locations; and (7) temperatures at various locations. For the 80-ft test, the burning and shorting of electrical leads resulted in the loss of data, with the exception of the first three items. Burning rate, flame angle, flame length, radiative properties of LNG flames, variation of radiative flux with distance and fraction of energy radiated are discussed. (LK)