What does BLEVE stand for?

BLEVE stands for Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion. This term describes a specific type of explosion that can occur when a vessel containing a pressurized liquid is heated and eventually fails due to the high temperature. When the vessel's integrity is compromised, the boiling liquid rapidly expands into vapor, which can lead to a large and violent explosion, causing extensive damage and posing significant safety risks.

Understanding BLEVE is crucial in industrial safety, particularly in scenarios involving pressurized and heated liquids such as those found in chemical plants or during transportation of hazardous materials. The implications of recognizing and taking precautions against BLEVE can prevent catastrophic events and protect both personnel and the environment.