Identifying Critical Failures in a Chemical Plant Explosion
Challenge: A fire and explosion at a chemical plant resulted in a fatality, significant injuries, and property damage outside the plant fence line. The incident occurred when a piping component handling highly flammable hydrocarbons failed, leading to a vapor cloud explosion. The case required expert analysis to determine the cause of failure and responsibility.
Objective: Provide expert analysis to identify the root cause of the piping failure and support the client’s position.
Becht Approach: Becht’s engineer evaluated the operating conditions and materials of construction for the piping system. Key findings included:
- The operating company selected an unacceptable material for the application, typically used for water and low-hazard services
- The material selection was not in accordance with recognized codes, the company’s internal piping standards, and recognized good engineering practice
- The system design could overpressure the component well beyond its design limits
Solution: The engineer developed expert and rebuttal reports, was deposed, and prepared for trial. The Becht engineer’s analysis clearly demonstrated the root cause of the accident:
- The operating company used a component with incorrect metallurgy for the service conditions
- The process design allowed for significant overpressure beyond the component’s design pressure
The Chemical Safety Board’s independent report, issued after Becht’s expert findings, aligned with these conclusions.
Client Value: The Becht engineer’s work significantly strengthened the client’s position. The engineer quickly identified critical issues with material selection and system design that others had overlooked during two years of investigation. This insight proved pivotal for the client, highlighting both improper installation and a design flaw that allowed overpressure in the system.
Becht brings extensive experience to legal cases, with a team of seasoned experts skilled in deposition and trial testimony across all aspects of engineering in the refining, petrochemical, and related industries.
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