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Compressor Fires and Explosions

Reciprocating and centrifugal compressors operate under high pressures with flammable or toxic gases, and mechanical failures, seal leaks, or control system faults have triggered significant incidents. These CSB investigations cover the equipment context, failure sequence, and recommended safeguards.

4 CSB investigations in this database involve compressor as a primary or contributing equipment factor, spanning 1998–2024.


Compressor Fires and Explosions (4)

Incident Date Industry Key Hazard
Marcus Oil and Chemical Tank Explosion 12/03/2004 Chemical Manufacturing Explosion, Fire
Millard Refrigerated Services Ammonia Release 08/23/2010 Food Processing Ammonia Release, Chemical Release
Cuisine Solutions Ammonia Release 07/31/2024 Food Processing Ammonia Release, Toxic Release
Husky Energy Superior Refinery Explosion and Fire 04/26/2018 Petroleum Refining Explosion, Fire

Chemical Release · Explosion · Fire · Overpressure · Structural Failure


Valve Failures in Process Plant Incidents · Pressure Vessel Explosions and Failures · Storage Tank Fires and Explosions · Pipeline Ruptures, Leaks, and Fires · Pump Failures and Process Safety Incidents · Refrigeration System


Data sourced from CSB.gov public investigation reports. This site is an independent project not affiliated with the U.S. CSB.