Papers and Conference Presentations
The Baker-Strehlow methodology was developed to provide an objective approach to prediction of blast pressures from vapor cloud explosions. The complete methodology was first published in 1994. Since then, it has evolved through ongoing research and use in VCE hazard analyses, facility siting studies and accident investigations. This paper presents recent developments in the Baker-Strehlow methodology. The use of the flame speed correlation is reviewed and revisions to the methodology are presented. Methods for handling multiple confined/congested zones within a vapor cloud and the ramifications of multiple blast waves on structures are discussed. The effects of varying degrees of confinement and congestion on VCE blast predictions are also addressed. Lastly, a procedure to determine fuel reactivity for mixtures is presented.
Mr. Baker is a member of BakerRisk’s Blast Effects Group. His work focuses on explosion and combustion phenomena. He has conducted numerous R&D projects, hazard analyses, and engineering studies involving airblast effects from a wide variety of explosion sources, blast loads, fragmentation effects, debris throw, blast damage, and personnel injury.
Injury prediction and risk analysis have also been the subject of Mr. Baker’s research; he has contributed to the development of a building occupant vulnerability model. He has also investigated explosions and fires including chemical processing facilities, upstream oil and gas, midstream/pipeline, grain storage and handling, rail, and ship.
As the biofuels industry continues to expand in support of global decarbonization mandates and objectives, facility owners and developers are being challenged to balance production efficiency, operational reliability, and personnel safety.
As high hazard facilities, biofuels sites should focus on developing a fire protections strategy informed by performance-based analysis so strategies implemented meet the unique challenges found at each facility.