March 13--A fire and explosion at the Green Plains Ethanol Plant in Fergus Falls Monday afternoon was the result of a failed hydraulic pump, according to a news release from the Fergus Falls Fire Department.
The failed hydraulic pump controlled the damper on the dryer rack. The damper failed to open, causing higher-than-normal temperatures and the fire, the release said. Smoke was then drawn into the dryer, creating the smoke explosion in the dryer building.
The plant, at 24096 170th Ave. on the west side of Fergus Falls, has been closed indefinitely while officials assess the damage. An exact dollar amount is not yet available.
The fire started sometime before 4:20 p.m. Monday, and the explosion occurred after fire crews arrived. Crews were on the scene throughout the evening.
No one was injured.
The plant produces 60 million gallons of ethanol annually. That's about 165,000 gallons per day, according to Jim Stark, Green Plains spokesperson.
Copyright 2014 - Fergus Falls Daily Journal, Minn.
