Study of explosion relief mechanisms in lateral explosion relief conduits of gas pipelines

Abstract To elucidate the mechanism of lateral relief conduits in combustible gas pipelines, this study proposes an experimental pipeline system equipped with a sidewall conduit. Furthermore, the research utilizes the standard two‐dimensional k‐ε model in conjunction with the Zimont combustion model for numerical simulation. Four different configurations were investigated by varying the position and the number of lateral explosion relief conduits. This paper mainly analyzes the impact of lateral conduits on the propagation of flames, overpressure, and flow fields within the pipeline during an explosion. The results indicate that the combined effect of the horizontal force from the main pipe's end relief and the longitudinal force within the lateral explosion relief conduit creates an acute angle between the flow directions in the lateral conduit and the adjacent main pipe. The branch pipe near the ignition end of the main pipeline has a significant effect on restricting flame propagation. Additionally, the two lateral explosion relief conduits facilitate pressure relief more efficiently. It was also found that relief ports upstream of the flame front inhibit flame propagation, while those downstream may induce it.