Failure analysis of an exploded gas cylinder

This paper reports the major activities carried out during the failure analysis of an exploded cylinder containing hydrogen. The general cracking pattern of the cylinder, the fractographic features, and the stress analysis results were all indicative of an internal gaseous detonation. Accordingly, several specific characteristics of detonation-driven fracture of closed-end cylindrical tubes were identified. These characteristics were analyzed through detailed examinations of the fracture surfaces, cracking patterns, and dynamic stress analysis of the cylinder using a transient analytical model. Based on the size and location of special markings found on the shear lips, and using the time duration of flexural waves, the crack growth increments and speed were computed. Consequently, the basic features of the gaseous detonation and the composition of the original gas mixture were identified. The results indicated that the detonation of a low-pressure oxygen-rich mixture of hydrogen and oxygen was the cause of this failure. The presence of oxygen was attributed to an improper usage of an oxygen cylinder for hydrogen storage.