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ExxonMobil Chemical Plant (286), Baton Rouge
LDEQ Accident Report
| Accident # | 130645 |
| State Police # | 11-02114 |
| Accident Date | 2011-04-13 |
| Report Date | 2011-04-19 |
| Follow-up Date | 0000-00-00 |
| Follow-up: | No |
Pollutants Released
| Pollutant | Duration | Point Source | Greenhouse Gas | Criteria Pollutant | Ozone forming chemical | Amount of Release |
| Propylene | 3m | RT-03 | NO | NO | YES | 4,619.0 pounds |
| Ethylene | 3m | RT-03 | NO | NO | YES | 3,414.0 pounds |
| Flammable Vapor | 3m | RT-03 | NO | NO | YES | 19,903.0 pounds |
Accident Classified As: Reportable Quantity
Cause of Problem: Equipment Failure
The South Ethylene Purification Unit (EPLA-S) experienced operational difficulties from depropanizer tower RT-03. RT-03 experienced operational difficulties with its overhead condensers when a control valve failed, resulting in EPLA-S receiving unsteady feed rates and material molecular weights. Due to teh unsteady feed, material was routed from EPLA-S to the flare system and an atmospheric safety valve released material. A control valve failed.
Discharge Preventable - No
Caused by unanticipated control valve failure.
Notes/Remedial Actions
Material was routed from EPLA-S to the flare system. To end the release, rates at RT-03 and EPLA-S were reduced. The failed control valve has been isolated. It will be repaired prior to being returned to service.
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