Explosion within a thermal oxidiser
Loss Prevention Bulletin, (April 2003)Abstract
A thermal oxidizer on a site exploded, severely damaging all sections
ofthe oxidizer. There were no injuries as a result of the incident
and propertydamage was limited to the oxidizer. The accident investigation
revealedthat the explosion occurred due to a VOC loading well in
excess of designconditions, resulting in the creation of combustible
concentrations ofVOCs inside the oxidizer. Recommendations included:
a written project specificationis essential; this should include
the relevant mass balances, flows andconcentrations for normal and
abnormal loads and operating conditions;hazop training is required;
hazard study teams should include staff withthe necessary technical
expertise; formal pre-commissioning and commissioningprocedures are
required.