Compressor Bearing Failure Leads to Fire in Wood Processing Facility
Incident Investigation
Compressor Bearing Failure Leads to Fire in Wood Processing Facility
October 21, 2023
Electrical
Reference Number:
II-1622405-2023 (#40557)
Location: Fruitvale
Regulated industry sector: Electrical – Low voltage electrical system (30V to 1000V)
Incident overview
A 150-horsepower air compressor at a wood processing facility experienced a bearing failure between the electric motor and the air compressor. This compressor provides air to power various machines that remove bark from logs. When the bearing failed, cooling oil leaked into the air tank and pipes. The pressurized oil bypassed a safety valve and sprayed into the surrounding area. An unknown source then ignited the oil mist, causing a fire in and around the air compressor room.