ABSTRACT

This paper describes how the explosion of an oil tank of 1800 m3 capacity constructed in 1954 took place at a thermoelectric power level of 470 MW.

The explosion has caused serious damage but, fortunately, no casualties were registered. Three men working above on the service steel frame platform could have been seriously injured, however, the platform’s steel frame protected them from the deformation of the tank.

The ambient temperature was approximately 26°C and vicinity was filled with 80% fuel oil. The purpose in discussing this accident is to provide the readers with some recommendations derived from the experience gained in this case.