Consequence modeling of a real rupture of toluene storage tank

• Verification and modeling of the ruptured Toluene storage tank (vessel) incident near Tehran in spring 2012.
• Clarification of area in which there is a possibility of flash fire occurrence and its extension.
• Acquiring the amount of radiation in terms of distance from the vessel.
• Verification the effect of bund wall on the area of flash fire and radiation.

Chemicals used in paint industry are generally comprised of toxic and inflammable substances; they may cause serious problems for humans and environment if safety conditions are neglected. In 2012, rupture of a toluene tank in a paint factory in Iran claimed lives of two workers near the tank. The present study is formulated in order to model the incident. The results showed the area prone to flash fire occurrence and extension. Furthermore, radiation was measured in terms of distance to the tank. A bund wall is also assumed around the vessel in order to determine its influence on evaporation in flash fire area, radiation, and maximum concentration of vapor cloud. The results provided important hints on minimum and required distance of electrical equipment or electrical enclosure (PLC) installation from vessels as well as suitable distance between the vessels. Finally, preventive recommendations were proposed to reduce the risk of potential accidents.