What is a BLEVE?

A BLEVE, or Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion, refers specifically to a catastrophic failure of a flammable liquid vessel due to external heating. In this scenario, the pressure inside the vessel increases as the liquid heats up and begins to vaporize. If the vessel's integrity is compromised—often due to the material weakening from high temperatures—this can result in an explosive rupture. The combination of the rapid expansion of vapor and the release of flammable liquid creates a highly dangerous situation, as the escaping vapor can ignite, resulting in an explosive force.

This understanding highlights the risk associated with high-pressure vessels, especially in environments where they may be subjected to heat from a fire or other heat sources. The characteristics of a BLEVE showcase both the chemical and physical dangers involved in such a failure, stressing the importance of proper handling, storage, and safety protocols in environments where flammable liquids are present.