What height was reached by a projectile of a pressurized system (pics)

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the height reached by a 5,000 lbs valve launched from a pressurized system operating at 500 psi with a 22" diameter line. Key factors influencing the height calculation include the aerodynamic drag of the valve, the energy absorbed by the hole created in the roof, and the momentum transfer from the air expanding from 500 psi to atmospheric pressure. The discussion emphasizes that without these specific parameters, an accurate height calculation is not feasible. Additionally, estimating the time interval between launch and landing could provide a rough altitude estimate.

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There is a pressurized system at work that operates at 500 psi. The line is 22" in diameter. One of the valves failed at the body to bonnet connection and launched the valve (5,000 lbs) up and through the roof. I was curious if it is possible to calculate the height reached.
 

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Whoa, seems like quite a blast! Hope everyone was ok! But with this information alone you cannot calculate the height, you need at least:
- the aerodynamic drag of the valve
- the amount of energy absorbed by the generation of the hole in the roof
- the amount of air(?) that has expanded from 500psi to atmospheric which was able to transfer its momentum to the valve.
 
Amazingly, I have witnessed a somewhat similar incident. Another way to address your question would be, do you have any estimate of the time interval between the initial launch and landing of the valve? You could get a rough idea of the altitude that way.
 

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