• The localised pressure shock wave produced by adiabatic ignition of hydrocarbon deposits in the drain line exceeded the system rating, and pipes and fittings ruptured.
• The operator was positioned next to the drain line when it exploded.

• The design of the compressor system did not protect against the risk of adiabatic compression:
  • use of fast opening valve (sudden pressure differential)
  • geometry of condensate line (high-velocity particles impinge on localised area, allowing heat build-up and contributing to adiabatic ignition)
  • equipment not earthed (gas flow across the valve trim may have generated a static charge).
• Inappropriate maintenance practices included:
  • mixing lubricants with different auto-ignition temperatures
  • not addressing the presence of contaminants in the lubricants (dust and fine debris behave as high-velocity particles with kinetic energy transformed into heat upon impact).

Responsible persons are reminded of the importance of monitoring and reviewing the design, installation and use of plant to ensure workers can undertake tasks safely. The following measures are recommended.

Design considerations

• Confirm the adequacy of design factors of safety for all pipework and receivers connected to systems downstream of a switching valve, including the use of screwed fittings in high-pressure air systems.
  • Install remotely operated valves where practicable. If not, consider cracking condensate drain valves in the open position.
• Avoid using fast-opening valves where the risk of adiabatic ignition exists.
• Avoid sharp bends, tees and elbows to minimise the potential for high velocity particles impinging on localised areas.
• Reduce the potential to generate a static charge on fittings.
  • Ensure electrical continuity between all parts of the system, especially valves.
  • Earth all compressors and boosters in accordance with Australian Standards.
  • Consult the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) regarding the suitability of non-metallic system components.

Note: Ball, butterfly and eccentric disc valves have an inherent risk as the grounding path between the trim and valve body is inadequate. Soft-seated valves may produce a static discharge from the rapid relative motion between the disc and seat.

• Using materials with high thermal conductivity will assist in heat dissipation from hot spots. 
• Use additional safety devices such as bursting discs to protect against adiabatic ignition.

Note: Pressure relief valves (PRVs) have slow response times and are not designed to protect against adiabatic ignition events.

Operational and maintenance considerations

• Consult with the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) before modifying or changing operating parameters.
• In consultation with operators and maintenance personnel, undertake a formal risk assessment of high-pressure compressed air systems to reduce risk to an acceptable level.
  • Review high-pressure air paths for potential “slam-on slam-off” operations that may result in adiabatic ignition events in the system.
• Do not assume that high-pressure air paths are unobstructed.
• Use only OEM-approved lubricants and cleaning agents.
• Lubricants should be clearly labelled to prevent cross-contamination, and operators and maintenance personnel trained in their use.

Note: Mineral oil-based lubricants have a lower auto-ignition temperature than phosphate ester-based lubricants.

• Establish an appropriate maintenance and inspection regime to:
  • maintain air intake and oil filters to minimise contamination
  • monitor air boosters and compressors for excessive oil loss as well as high discharge temperatures
  • identify potential contaminants (e.g. rust and other metal oxides) that can lower the auto-ignition temperature of lubricants
  • identify excessive (over)lubrication, which can increase the amount of combustible material in the system.

Note: Higher temperatures promote the occurrence of adiabatic ignition, while higher pressures increase the propagation speed of the shock wave.