Power generation facilities and their associated transmission and distribution networks depend on precise engineering and reliable operation. When a fire or explosion interrupts either, the consequences can include lost output, outage claims, and disputes between multiple parties.
Neale Consulting investigates power plant fires and explosions, as well as fires on the transmission and distribution network, with scientific rigour and independence.
Our findings could help you reduce downtime, determine liability, and meet regulatory expectations.
Power Generation
We investigate fires and explosions at conventional power generation facilities, including:
- Coal and gas-fired plants.
- Hydroelectric stations.
- Nuclear facilities.
We look at how the plant, its systems and its operations contributed to a fire or explosion, from the failed component through to design, maintenance, and operating practices. Our mechanical engineering and failure analysis background is particularly relevant to rotating and high-energy equipment such as turbines and generators.
Transmission & Distribution
Transmission and distribution networks carry significant fire and explosion exposure. We carry out impartial, independent investigations into incidents involving:
- Substations: including substation fire investigations.
- Overhead Lines: including their role in wildfire liability.
- Pipelines: including pipeline explosion incidents.
Our work clarifies the issues in wildfire liability, pipeline incidents, outage claims and other large-loss disputes.
What We Determine
Our investigations seek to determine all possible factors involved in a power or transmission-related fire or explosion, including:
- Where and how the fire or explosion started.
- Which equipment or system failed, and why.
- How the incident escalated and how protection systems performed.
- Whether design, maintenance, or operation contributed.
- Who or what was responsible, for insurance, outage and liability purposes.
Who We Help
Neale Consulting is regularly instructed to conduct fire and explosion investigations by: insurers, utility companies, plant owners and operators, contractors, and legal professionals. Where necessary, our specialists are able to act as expert witnesses.
Need investigation support?
Then Neale Consulting should be your first port of call. Contact us as early as possible - ideally before the plant or transmission line is repaired or evidence removed.
How can we help you?
