EXPLOSION HAZARDS IN TANKS OF HIGH FLASH POINT LIQUIDS

Reports of explosions in cargo and storage tanks of high flash point liquids such as residual fuel oil, asphalt, and oily waste water have shown that these explosions have occurred even when the liquid temperatures are well below the liquid nominal flash point. The reasons for these seemingly paradoxical explosions are reviewed and results of recent laboratory tests are presented to better define the conditions leading to flammable vapor atmospheres in these tanks. The potential effectiveness of various prevention measures are discussed including inerting, monitoring tank vapor concentrations, and periodic cleaning of condensation and deposits on the tank walls and roof.