Case Study: How we managed to contain a major fire at a cardboard factory

One of the largest industrial fires in the region in recent years broke out in a Polish industrial estate. The company affected specialises in the manufacture of paper and cardboard packaging. Our ECClos®-S conveyor system seals prevented the worst from happening.

What happened?

According to investigations, the fire was caused by a malfunctioning heater in the raw materials store. The fire spread rapidly and engulfed large quantities of stored paper and cardboard. The fire-fighting operation was extremely challenging and lasted several days. At the height of the operation, nearly 60 fire crews were on site.

STÖBICH fire protection solution

In the affected area, our ➥ ECClos®-S conveyor system closures as well as an emergency power supply/clearance system were installed. Despite the extreme conditions and prolonged exposure to heat, these systems formed a vital part of the plant’s safety infrastructure. The visualisation shows where our fire protection systems effectively contained the fire, isolating it from the production hall in the background (see red markings). The warehouse, however, was not protected by STÖBICH conveyor system closures and burnt down completely, as can be seen in the picture.

Conclusion

The fire destroyed a raw materials warehouse covering an area of around 6,000 m². The damage was estimated at around 14 million euros. Thanks to the rapid and professional response of the fire service and the fire protection measures in place, the main production hall was saved. No one was injured in the incident.

The company began reconstruction work immediately after the incident. Just four months after the fire, the new warehouse was officially put into operation.