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Louisiana Refinery Accident Database

ExxonMobil Refinery (2638), Baton Rouge

LDEQ Accident Report

Pollutants Released

Accident Classified As: Reportable Quantity

Cause of Problem: Equipment Failure

On 10/7/11 at approximately 12:50 am, the Baton Rouge Refinery discovered a release. A controller noticed that the discharge temperature for hydrogen make-up compressor C-102A was increasing, so the compressor was shut down. Operations personnel were dispatched to investigation, whereby they discovered that the compressor had developed a leak. The emergency isolation valves were activated, and the leak was subsequently isolated. The leak was later determined to be from the #2 cylinder head. Approximately 881 lbs of flammable vapor were released. An iNotification was sent at 1:27 am as a precaution. The event was downgraded at 1"37 am, and the close out notification was sent at 2:11 am. During the same 24 hour period, hydrogen make-up compressor C-102B had an ongoing make-up hydrogen leak from a cylinder packing. This event release approximately 182 lbs during the 24 hour period. Combined, the two events resulted in an exceedance of the flammable vapor reportable quantity.

Discharge Preventable - No

No, the C-201A release was caused by unanticipated gasket failure. No mention of whether the C-201B release was preventable.

Notes/Remedial Actions

#2 Cylinder head leak. To end the release, the compressor was shut down and isolated. To prevent recurrence, the compressor will be repaired before being restarted. Weather conditions during the event: 69 degrees, 9.5 mph from the east, no precipitation.