Testing
Validation

The Project

A global group of energy and petrochemical companies validated test data by performing an independent test at the Southwest Research Institute in Texas, USA.

The Challenge

A total of three blast tests were conducted to simulate conditions that may result from a pressure vessel rupture. During the test, pressure, strain and high-speed video data were collected for post-test analysis. Images were taken of the pre and post test condition of the fabric panels.

The Solution

The tests showed that the fabric panels were able to reduce blast overpressure in the vicinity directly behind the panel compared with equal distant pressure sensor located in the free-field. The panels also showed the ability to capture fragments during the tests. 12lbs of C4 were used at approximately 13ft from the blast curtain, which created a 40psi blast wave. The blast curtain reduced the 40psi blast wave to 3.0psi approximately 3ft behind the curtain.