Athens ME pellet mill explosion and fire caused by bad bearing.

[Don2222]

http://www.centralmaine.com/2016/07...thens-pellet-mill-halts-production-for-a-day/

Looks like it was caused by a bearing failure
Fire at Athens pellet mill halts production for a day - Central Maine

Maybe some safety switches like the ones used in a pellet stove may be needed here?

 

[rona]

http://www.centralmaine.com/2016/07...thens-pellet-mill-halts-production-for-a-day/

Looks like it was caused by a bearing failure
Fire at Athens pellet mill halts production for a day - Central Maine

Maybe some safety switches like the ones used in a pellet stove may be needed here?

Usually a bad bearing will result in sparks. This mixed with dust from pellets will produce a violent explosion. . This is why grain elevators blow up. Keep all areas clean and inspect bearings or replace them often. hopefully before they go bad. Ask local firemen how grain dust can cause tremendous damage. Some companies will demonstrate how just a little dust and a spark can make a huge explosion.