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Category: Process Safety

Reverse Engineering ALOHA: Modelling Thermal Radiation and Safe Fire Distances in Oil Refineries

Rifka Aisyah Leave a comment

In this post, I want to share reverse engineering using ALOHA (Areal Locations of Hazardous Atmosphere) to model thermal radiation and safe fire distances. The original publication can be downloaded here.

The purpose of the study is to assess safe distance of thermal radiation exposure resulting from a tank fire (pool fire) scenario using ALOHA simulation software.

ALOHA (Areal Locations of Hazardous Atmospheres) is an industry-standard atmospheric dispersion modelling tool developed by the EPA and NOAA to predict how chemical releases spread during industrial accidents. By factoring in chemical properties, storage conditions, and ambient weather, it calculates precise threat zones for toxic plumes, explosions, and pool fires. Read More

Process Safety Fundamentals: Learn Important Terms to Characterize Fires and Explosion

Rifka Aisyah Leave a comment

I plan to post more about process safety fundamentals in the future. In this post I want to share about process safety fundamentals which is important terms regarding characterization of fires and explosion.

Disclaimer: I am not a process safety expert. I am still learning about process safety topics. So, your feedback is appreciated. 

Based on statistics, the main cause of accidents in the chemical industry is fires and explosions. To prevent fires and explosions, we need to:

  • Learn the basics of fires and explosions
  • Conduct experiments to assess flammable and explosive materials
  • Implement these concepts in plant operations effectively

Understanding the basics of fires and explosions begins with familiarizing yourself with key terms related to these phenomena. You will learn through this post. Read More