Alert 14 – 01 Internal Explosion Ruptures Crown Mounted Compensator Piping

Alert 14 – 01 Internal Explosion Ruptures Crown Mounted Compensator Piping

Alert 14 – 01 Internal Explosion Ruptures Crown Mounted Compensator Piping

WHAT HAPPENED:

Two employees were in the derrick equalizing the internal pressure between Composite Air Pressure Vessels (CAPV) on the Crown Mounted Compensator (CMC) when an ignition occurred inside the system. Either heat generated by adiabatic compression or static generated by the air transfer led to ignition inside the CAPV. Thereafter, the associated raise in pressure and temperature resulted in the interconnecting piping rupturing. Two employees received non-life threatening injuries and were subsequently transported to a shore-based medical facility for further treatment.