Eastman Issues Update on Steam Line Failure Incident

The company said it is continuing to assess the financial impacts of the incident at its Kingsport, TN facility.

Powder Bulk Solids Staff

February 7, 2022

1 Min Read
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American chemical manufacturer Eastman Chemical Co. has resumed full operations at its Kingsport, TN manufacturing facility after a steam line failure on January 31 disrupted work at the site, the company announced Monday in an update on the incident.

At least four people were injured after a high pressure steam line failed at the plant, Powder & Bulk Solids reported. The company told local media that the failure caused power outages in some sections of the facility and created loud, explosion-like noises.

Eastman said the incident mostly impacted the specialty copolyesters area of the plant. The section is expected to return to normal operations in about four to six weeks. A four-week scheduled maintenance shutdown at the site is being moved forward as the repairs are carried out.

“I am incredibly thankful that no one was seriously injured during this incident and am grateful to the Eastman team for their quick response to the situation,” the company’s chief executive officer and board chair Mark Costa said in a release. “It’s because of their dedication and expertise that I am confident that we will restore the site to normal operations safely and expeditiously.”

The company is working to determine the financial impact of the event.

Opened in 1920, Eastman’s Kingsport location produces a variety of chemicals, fibers, and plastics, according to information on the firm’s website. Products made at the site are used in pharmaceuticals, medical devices, adhesives, paint and a range of other applications.

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Powder Bulk Solids Staff

Established in 1983, Powder & Bulk Solids (PBS) serves industries that process, handle, and package dry particulate matter, including the food, chemical, and pharmaceutical markets.

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