Question 1

When should I use TekRisk vs FLACS/Gexcon?

Accepted Answer

FLACS is CFD software for detailed 3D explosion and dispersion modeling in complex geometries. TekRisk uses integral and empirical models (Yellow Book, CCPS, SLAB), the usual basis of consequence analysis and QRA. If a scenario depends on congestion, confinement or detailed geometry, CFD such as FLACS may be the right tool; whether integral models are enough is decided by the analyst and the reviewing authority.

Question 2

What's the difference between CFD and empirical models?

Accepted Answer

CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) models solve the flow of gas in detail over a 3D mesh, which requires expertise and computing time. Empirical and integral models use correlations fitted to experiments and give results in seconds. Each is valid within its range of application.

Question 3

When do I need CFD modeling?

Accepted Answer

CFD is typically used for indoor or highly congested scenarios, complex terrain, or when the reviewing authority asks for it. For open-field scenarios, integral models like those in TekRisk are the usual approach.

Question 4

Are empirical models accurate enough?

Accepted Answer

Within their range of application. TekRisk's models follow published references (Yellow Book, CCPS, LLNL) and the model validation page (tekrisk.com/en/docs/validation) shows each benchmark, its deviation and the models not yet benchmarked.

Feature	TekRisk	FLACS / Gexcon	Advantage
Cloud-Based	Included	Not included	TekRisk Advantage
No Installation Required	Included	Not included	TekRisk Advantage
CFD Modeling	Not included	Included	Advantages FLACS / Gexcon
3D Explosion Modeling	Not included	Included	Advantages FLACS / Gexcon
Pool Fire Model	Included	Included	Equal
Vapor Cloud Explosion (VCE)	Included	Included	Equal
Flash Fire	Included	Included	Equal
Interactive Maps	Included	Not included	TekRisk Advantage
Easy to Use	Included	Not included	TekRisk Advantage
Pricing	Free · Pro US$59.99/mo	US$15,000+/yr	TekRisk Advantage
Free Tier Available	Included	Not included	TekRisk Advantage

Looking for a FLACS / GexconAlternative?

TekRisk vs FLACS / Gexcon: Feature Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions: FLACS / Gexcon vs TekRisk

Ready to switch from FLACS / Gexcon?