What are the best practices for analyzing structure performance in a blast event?

1 Define the blast scenario

The first step in a blast analysis is to define the blast scenario, which includes the type, location, magnitude, and duration of the blast load. You can use empirical formulas, numerical models, or experimental data to estimate the blast pressure and impulse on the structure. You also need to consider the effects of blast reflection, shielding, and attenuation due to the surrounding environment.

2 Choose the analysis method

The next step is to choose the appropriate analysis method for your structure and blast scenario. There are three main methods: static, dynamic, and nonlinear. Static analysis assumes that the blast load is applied instantaneously and uniformly, and that the structure responds elastically. Dynamic analysis considers the time-varying nature of the blast load and the inertia effects of the structure. Nonlinear analysis accounts for the material and geometric nonlinearities of the structure, such as plastic deformation, cracking, and buckling.

3 Select the analysis tool

The third step is to select the analysis tool that suits your analysis method and your design objectives. There are various structural modeling and simulation tools available, such as finite element analysis (FEA), computational fluid dynamics (CFD), or coupled FEA-CFD. Each tool has its own advantages and limitations, depending on the complexity, accuracy, and efficiency of the analysis. You need to compare the features, capabilities, and costs of different tools and choose the one that meets your needs.

4 Validate the analysis results

The fourth step is to validate the analysis results and ensure that they are reliable and realistic. You can do this by comparing your results with experimental data, analytical solutions, or other numerical models. You can also perform sensitivity analysis, uncertainty analysis, or verification and validation (V&V) procedures to check the accuracy and robustness of your results. You should also review the assumptions, limitations, and errors of your analysis and report them clearly.

5 Evaluate the performance criteria

The fifth step is to evaluate the performance criteria of your structure and determine whether it meets the design requirements and standards. You can use different performance criteria, such as damage levels, deformation limits, or safety factors, to assess the structural response and failure modes. You can also use performance-based design (PBD) methods, such as blast load resistance functions (BLRFs) or blast damage index (BDI), to quantify the structural performance and optimize your design.

6 Communicate the analysis findings

The final step is to communicate the analysis findings and recommendations to your clients, stakeholders, or authorities. You should present your analysis methods, tools, results, and conclusions in a clear and concise manner, using graphs, tables, diagrams, or animations. You should also highlight the key points, challenges, and implications of your analysis and provide suggestions for improving the structural performance and resilience in a blast event.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?