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Accident at the Cove Point LNG facility

Journal Article · · Chem. Eng. Prog.; (United States)
OSTI ID:5451191
On October 6, 1979, an explosion occurred at the Cove Point, Md, liquefied natural gas receiving terminal when leaking LNG was ignited by an electrical arc. The explosion destroyed an electrical substation building containing switchgear and motor controllers. This paper briefly describes the accident itself, the source of the gas leakage and cause of the explosion. Details of the seal and conduit system redesign are discussed along with a report on the present status of changes to the National Electrical Code and the NFPA-59A standard. It is suggested that all equipment which depends on a seal, diaphragm, or any other single barrier (such as a thermowell) to prevent flammable gases or liquids from entering electrical conduit or cable-pumps, pressure transducers, flow transducers, valve operators, etc - be checked to ensure that a positive means exists to prevent fluids from entering an area where contacts may be present. Finally, conduit seals, such as the Crouse Hinds Model EYS if used, should not be relied upon as a positive stop for liquids or gases under pressure. 5 refs.
Research Organization:
Columbia LNG Corp, Wilmington, Del
OSTI ID:
5451191
Journal Information:
Chem. Eng. Prog.; (United States), Journal Name: Chem. Eng. Prog.; (United States) Vol. 78:1; ISSN CEPRA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English