A leakage of a hexane solution from a pump discharge flange during use occurred. The hexane vapor was ignited by a static electricity spark and a fire occurred. Apparently, the flange was loosened by vibrations from the pump, due to cavitation, which was ignored. Routine operations were being carried out on site at the time of the accident. The operation involved the transfer of a hexane solution from an unreacted raw material recovery tank to the washing process through the outlet of the first flange of the pump. The hexane solution leaked, ignited, and burned. The financial costs of recovery and lost production were significant.
Source: European Commission
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