The U.S. Coast Guard issued a
Safety Alert stating that a chemical tanker recently suffered a tank explosion in the Gulf of Mexico near
Galveston. After stripping a tank, the tankerman opened the tank top cover and an explosion ensued, injuring the tankerman and damaging the vessel. While the investigation is ongoing, the cause appears to be that the bearings in the cargo pump failed, allowing the shaft and
impeller to shift and spin against the casing. The friction caused extreme heat and possible
sparks, which ignited the atmosphere in the tank. Owners and operators are advised to ensure proper maintenance of cargo pumps.
Source: HK Law