Scenario-based resilience framework for gas compressor stations under fire and explosion hazards

Abstract

Gas compressor stations are pivotal nodes in gas transmission networks; therefore, assessment of their resilience against fire and explosion hazards is crucial for improving process safety. While traditional process safety risk assessments identify potential hazards, a critical gap exists in quantifying the dynamic resilience of these plants following major incidents. This study presents a novel approach in the field of process safety by introducing an integrated framework to model and quantify the resilience of gas compressor stations against fire and explosion. The methodology combines HAZID-based hazard identification with modelling the consequences of fires and explosions using PHAST software. To move beyond static consequence metrics, a time-dependent Resilience Loss (RL) index is proposed, which captures both functional degradation and the recovery process, a key component of loss prevention. A case study of the Dorahan Gas Compressor Station demonstrates the framework’s application. Results illustrate that the most vulnerable sections of gas compressor stations that lead to the most severe resilience degradation are turbocompressors and the type of flange connections. Finally, a sensitivity analysis proves the impact of increasing repair crew sizes in reducing logistical delay and recovery time. The approach introduces a novel tool for process safety decision-making and the capability to use risk-informed approaches to improve the resilience of gas compressor stations.