IGNITION OF FLAMMABLE GASES IN CRUDE OIL TANKERS AS A RESULT OF METAL FRACTURE

Abstract : A literature search and an energy analysis have shown that the energies generated and the temperatures developed by metal fracture are not sufficient to ignite a flammable mixture of hydrocarbon vapor and air directly. It was concluded from this study that if metal fracture were to be a cause of ignition, it would be by an indirect process. The most likely cause of ignition resulting from metal fracture would be due to frictional impact or friction of fractured metal structural members with each other or with other objects. It was also concluded that normal impact (without friction) or single rubbings would not generate sufficient energy for ignition unless friction sparks also resulted. Friction sparks are more likely to cause ignition if highly pyrophoric metals are present. It was also concluded that adiabatic compression is a possible source of ignition in the case of ship collisions. (Author)