-
ENGINEERING SOLUTION EXAMPLES
Fires, explosions
-
Investigation Of Explosions To Improve Safety In Hazardous Areas.
Air compressor fires and explosions, crankcase explosions and 'dieseling' explosions are uncommon events, but can be a major hazard in process plant and engineering works.
Air compressor fires and explosions can occur with both lubricated reciprocating and oil-flooded rotary air compressors. The so-called 'crankcase' explosions are confined not only to the crankcases of large diesel engines, steam engines and reciprocating compressors but can also occur in any machine with a large enclosed space containing air and lubricating oil, e.g. large gearboxes.
'Dieseling' explosions occur when air at high pressure is admitted to an enclosed space containing lubricating oil. Measures to prevent these occurrences are well-established, but in view of their rarity may not be fully understood by plant operators or even fall into disuse because their very effectiveness tends to obscure their significance.
Dr. Denis Summers-Smith is an independent Expert Witness and has unique experience of these events, having personally investigated over 20 cases of air compressor fires (4 of which led to severe explosions). Over 20 cases of crankcase explosions (including 2 in steam engine crankcases and 1 in a large dry sump gearbox) and 4 cases of 'dieseling' explosions. He is available for the investigation of incidents of this type and for consultation on preventive measures.