(67b) Stainless Steel Drum Failure at Olefins Plant

Two 304 stainless steel vessels in the demethanizer circuit of an olefins unit developed through wall cracks and leaks. Both cracks occurred in 304 stainless steel 2:1 elliptical heads that were manufactured by cold spinning. The heads were in the "as spun" condition. The unit was immediately shut down under controlled conditions and no personnel injuries occurred. No other equipment in the unit was damaged.