Process Control Case Study: Refinery Explosion and Fire


A case study of the 2018 Husky Energy refinery explosion in Superior, WI. This animated video recaps all the events and circumstances leading up to an explosion starting in the Fluid Catalyst Cracker (FCC). The key factor was an eroded sliding gate valve that allowed a protective layer of reactor catalyst to disappear. This allowed air and hydrocarbon to blend, forming a combustible mixture, and setting the stage for a chain reaction of events. This video, courtesy of the Chemical Safety Board (csv.gov) is an excellent educational reference and should be viewed by engineering, maintenance, and plant management personnel everywhere.

Piping Specialties, Inc. / PSI Controls
https://psi-team.com
800-223-1468