Investigation Report
NDK Crystal Inc. Explosion with Offsite Fatality
NDK Crystal Inc. Explosion with Offsite Fatality
- CSB
- Investigation Report
- Explosion
- CorrosionExplosionPressure systemsRegulation and legislationStructural and asset integrity
- Inspection and maintenance
- Pressure vessel
- Competence and trainingNon-destructive testingOperating and work proceduresRisk assessment
- Downstream and process industries
- Onshore facility
Summary
This investigation examines a crystal-production pressure-vessel rupture in Belvidere, Illinois, which killed a truck driver off site. It identifies stress corrosion cracking as the likely failure mechanism and considers possible embrittlement. The report analyses coating protection, missed internal inspections, vessel design, regulatory oversight and facility siting.
Classifications: Corrosion; corrosion damage.
Classifications: Explosion; explosive atmospheres.
Classifications: Pressure systems; stored pressure; pressurised systems; pressurized systems.
Classifications: Regulation and legislation; safety legislation; regulatory requirements.
Classifications: Structural and asset integrity; asset integrity; structural integrity.
Classifications: Inspection and maintenance; asset inspection; equipment maintenance.
Classifications: Pressure vessel; pressure vessels.
Classifications: Competence and training; competency assurance; safety training.
Classifications: Non-destructive testing; NDT; non-destructive examination; NDE.
Classifications: Operating and work procedures.
Classifications: Risk assessment; hazard assessment.
Classifications: Downstream and process industries; refining; petrochemicals.
Classifications: Onshore facility; onshore plant.
Themes: explosion.