(101c) Investigation and Corrective Actions After An Internal Air Compressor Fire

In November 2005, an internal fire occurred in a filter downstream of a dual headed diaphragm compressor.  Subsequent investigation revealed that the diaphragms had been punctured after failure of the inlet check valve that allowed a piece of spring to impact the diaphragms.  The puncture penetrated through three separate diaphragms which resulted in compressor oil being pumped into the air stream.  As the compressor continued to operate, oil collected in the downstream filter and was ignited.  Discoloration of the filter housing indicated a temperature in excess of 700 °F occurred in this filter housing.  Fortunately, there was no loss of containment and eventually the fire was extinguished without operator intervention.  This presentation will focus on the investigation into the causes of the equipment failure, how the ignition may have occurred, and the corrective actions taken to prevent future incidents.  Implementation of improved shutdown systems, more frequent maintenance, and changes to reduce possible causes of the fire were implemented and the compressors have operated without another incident since 2005.