Connect With Us:

Louisiana Refinery Accident Database

Valero (1238), Meraux

LDEQ Accident Report

Pollutants Released

Accident Classified As:

Cause of Problem: Equipment Failure

the startup followed a shutdown of the #3 SRU complex on 2/23/2007, after its source of acid gas, the Hydrocracker Unit, experienced an automatic safety shutdown . The shutdown was triggered by a high temp. indication on the HCU Makeup Gas Compressor. Atemp. transmitter failed due to damage to its insulation and a loose connection. In failing, the transmitter sent a false high temp. indication, which triggered the shutdown of the compresso

Discharge Preventable - No

Notes/Remedial Actions

This incident was not preventable because the failure of the wiring was not a predictable event. Additionally, the excess emissions are a normal part of the unit startup. Remedial Measures - MOUSA reprogrammed the transmitter to send a low temp. signal on failure, which will avoid a compressor shutdown. MOUSA activated the instrument's dual element technology, such that if one element fails, it will automatically switch to the backup. This will improve the reliability of the transmitter. Nthe shutdown was triggered by a high temp. indication on the HCU Makeup Gas Compressor A. A temp. transmitter failed due to damage to its insulation and a loose connection. In failing, the transmitter sent a false high temp. indication, which trigge