Disaster recovery: What to do after the storm

Abstract

Petroleum and chemical production facilities are often concentrated along coastal regions, and therefore are especially vulnerable to hurricanes or typhoons. Electric motors, switchgear and related equipment are sensitive to damage from flooding, and replacements often have long lead times. This paper offers practical methods for restoring electrical equipment, as well as guidance for the repair-replace decisions with an eye towards getting the plant back in operation as soon as possible. It also offers advice about expected life reduction for electrical equipment that is not properly handled after such an event. Because similar production facilities are regionally concentrated, multiple facilities impacted by the same disaster will be competing for limited repair and replacement resources. Having a proactive recovery plan before the storm can significantly reduce the time required to restore production. Understanding the long-term effects of saltwater on electric motors and generators is vital to capital expense forecasting for the years following a major storm.