In early March 2017, the ARIA database identified 349 events involving fittings and seals/gaskets. These elements are often encountered on pipe flanges and are also essential sealing components for valves or other equipment. Insufficiently tightened flange bolts and deficient leak inspections on seals/gaskets are often the cause of an accident.
Equipment involved, the location of seals/gaskets:
- flanges (ARIA 45845, 21773, 8730, 3481, 9184…)
- valves or pump packing (ARIA 2994, 26544, 42320, 37439)
- utility holes (ARIA 46576, 43379)
- branch connections (level gauges, measuring devices, valves: ARIA 5449, 48377)
- floating roofs (ARIA 46008, 20819)
- perchloroethylene dry cleaning machines (ARIA 47298)
- fluid non-return or check valves (ARIA 5857)
- compressor flanges (ARIA 45791)…
The following phases are conducive to accident events:
- transfer of fluids / unloading/filling operations (ARIA 504, 1240, 45648)
- tests/leak tests (ARIA 34397)
- maintenance / servicing (seal/gasket replacement: ARIA 3965, 9485, 47298)
- overpressure on a system/water hammering (ARIA 22215, 41300, 47682)
Hazardous phenomena observed
- Fires, 56 accidents (16%)
- Explosions, 25 accidents (7%)
- Release of materials, 324 accidents (93%)
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