Investigation Report
Philadelphia Energy Solutions (PES) Refinery Fire and Explosions
Philadelphia Energy Solutions (PES) Refinery Fire and Explosions
- CSB
- Investigation Report
- ExplosionHot Work and FireHydrocarbon ReleaseProcess Safety
- CorrosionExplosionFireHazardous substancesProcess safety
- Inspection and maintenance
- Pressure vesselProcess pipework and pipelinesPumpsValve
- Emergency responseFire protectionEnergy and process isolation
- Downstream and process industries
Summary
Investigates the PES refinery fire and explosions following corrosion-induced rupture of an elbow in its hydrofluoric acid alkylation unit. Examines material composition, inspection coverage, vessel failure, unavailable remote isolation and impaired water-spray mitigation. Contrasts successful rapid acid deinventory with failed safeguards and assesses alternative alkylation technologies and regulatory recommendations.
Classifications: Corrosion; corrosion damage.
Classifications: Explosion; explosive atmospheres.
Classifications: Fire; fire safety.
Classifications: Hazardous substances; hazardous chemicals; chemical exposure.
Classifications: Process safety; major accident hazards.
Classifications: Inspection and maintenance; asset inspection; equipment maintenance.
Classifications: Pressure vessel; pressure vessels.
Classifications: Process pipework and pipelines; process piping.
Classifications: Pumps.
Classifications: Valve; valves.
Classifications: Emergency response; emergency preparedness.
Classifications: Fire protection; fire suppression; fire detection.
Classifications: Energy and process isolation; isolation; energy isolation.
Classifications: Downstream and process industries; refining; petrochemicals.
Summary
At approximately 4 am on Friday June 21, 2019 there was a release of vapor in the PES refinery alkylation unit. The vapor found an ignition source, causing a fire and multiple explosions.
Themes: explosion, hot work and fire, hydrocarbon release, process safety.