Experimental study of the reduction of high temperatures and radiation using heat shields associated with flare towers of offshore oil and gas platforms

Abstract

On oil and gas platforms, a flare system is used to burn excess and unusable gas and oil. This system is normally installed on the bow or stern of the topside structure to limit hazardous working conditions such as exposure to high temperatures or heat radiation. In general, when burning gas and oil, continuous flaring systems reach a maximum temperature of approximately 1200 °C and a heat flux of over 400 kW/m². As extreme temperature and heat flux can harm workers and damage structures near the flare system, heat shields are used to decrease temperature and radiation. The aims of this study were to investigate the effects of heat shields and to determine how different numbers and types of heat shields block heat flux and temperature. Two types of shields, i.e., flat and perforated plates, were examined. In examining perforated heat shields, tests were performed with single and double shields. In addition, the heat flux and temperature reduction rates achieved by heat shields at varying distances from a heat source were obtained.

Keywords:

• oil and gas platforms
• flare tower
• high temperature
• heat flux
• heat shield

Acknowledgements

The study was undertaken at the Lloyd's Register Foundation Research Centre of Excellence at Pusan National University, Korea.

Additional information

Funding

This research was jointly supported by SEBO Tech Co., Ltd and Leading Foreign Research Institute Recruitment Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) funded by the Ministry of Science, ICT & Future Planning (MSIP) [grant number 2013044761]. The Lloyd's Register Foundation supports the advancement of engineering-related education, and funds research and development that enhance the safety of life at sea, on land and in the air.