Updated November 26, 2024 Authored by Dr. Chris Cloney
Date of Incident: February 17-18, 2018
Location: New Braunfels, Texas (USA)
Address: 2686 Wald Rd, 78132
Type: Dust Fire
Fuel: Unknown
Industry: Cement/Concrete Manufacturing
Equipment: Hopper
Company: CemexUSA
Previous Incidents: OSHA
Loss: No Injuries
Capital Cost: Unknown
Status: Open
Confirmation: Unconfirmed
Company Description:
CemexUSA includes 11 cement plants, 50 distribution terminals, and 270 ready-mix concrete plants across the country. According to their website, the company was founded in Mexico in 1906 and has evolved from a small regional cement company into a global leader in building solutions. They produce, distribute, and sell cement, ready-mix concrete, aggregates, and related materials in over 50 countries.
Incident Description and Account:
During the weekend of February 17-18, 2018 including a Sunday, the New Braunfels Fire Department responded to a hopper fire at a cement factory in New Braunfels, Texas. According to their log, The New Braunfels Fire Department firefighters worked for a total of two days to extinguish a fire at the Cemex production facility in the city of New Braunfels, Texas after flames were discovered on top of a 60-foot tower. The incident, which occurred in the industrial zone of the city, produced black smoke visible from miles away, prompting swift action from the Braunfels Fire Department. According to an official account, no injuries were reported, and workers were evacuated from the scene as the team worked to control the blaze. Early information suggests that a mechanical malfunction may have been the result of the fire, but this remains under investigation. For further details on the account, check the news updates linked on the department’s website.
Eyewitness accounts described plumes of smoke rising from the factory, alarming nearby residents. The New Braunfels fire crew arrived within minutes to extinguish the flames, employing specialized equipment designed for industrial fires. Residents were advised to stay indoors due to the black smoke, which carried hazardous particles. While the log of the event is still being finalized, officials emphasized the importance of having emergency plans in place for high-risk industrial facilities. As the investigation continues, password security was briefly mentioned by officials as a precaution for accessing critical response systems. The link between safety measures and efficient emergency response was highlighted in this case, demonstrating the value of preparedness.
According to Powder Bulk Solids, the main issue with the New Braunfels fire appeared to be the location. The fire chief stated, “It was very intensive work to get to the deep-seated fire in their hoppers.” This made it extremely difficult to get to the actual source of the fire which was the main reason for the extended period of time that firefighters spent at the Texas facility. The Braunfels authorities are now reviewing logs from the incident to identify the fire’s origin. City residents with email notifications activated were promptly alerted about the situation and advised on safety precautions. Those seeking further updates are encouraged to sign up for department emails or visit the official website. The updated report and account is expected to shed light on the exact cause and offer recommendations for preventing similar occurrences.
There was no one injured during this incident.
Sources:
Powder Bulk Solids
