Safety Flash
Structural failure of a transponder housing
Structural failure of a transponder housing
- IMCA
- Safety Flash
- IMCA SF 01/99
- CorrosionMachinery and EquipmentPressure Systems
- Mechanical failurePressure systems
- Valve
- Pressure relief
- Onshore facility
Summary
A transponder end blew off during storage in an onshore workshop. Seawater ingress during subsea operation reacted with battery electrolyte, generating gas whose pressure failed the plastic retaining ring. The vent bleed valve was closed. Recommendations include fitting a suitable vent valve where practicable, cautious opening and venting before shipment.
Classifications: Mechanical failure; equipment failure.
Classifications: Pressure systems; stored pressure; pressurised systems; pressurized systems.
Classifications: Valve; valves.
Classifications: Pressure relief; overpressure protection.
Classifications: Onshore facility; onshore plant.
Summary
Gas pressure from seawater and battery electrolyte reactions caused a transponder housing retaining ring to fail.
IMCA SF 01/99. Themes: corrosion, machinery and equipment, pressure systems.