Two explosions hit Kent Feeds as Iowa investigates industrial fires

USA – Kent Feeds in Sheldon, Iowa, experienced two explosions between September 21 and October 1, while a separate fire at AG Processing Inc. (AGP) damaged dust-collection equipment, prompting investigations into three industrial incidents in the town.

The first explosion occurred on September 21 at the Kent Nutrition feed mill, causing significant damage to a tower on the facility’s eastern side during the startup of a grain dryer. No injuries were reported.

Firefighters returned to the facility on October 1 after employees reported another explosion, this time in building 6.

Workers told the Sheldon Fire Department they heard a blast but saw no flames.

An initial drone survey conducted by O’Brien County Emergency Management found no visible fire or damage.

However, firefighters entering the building at about 1:00 p.m. discovered smoke filling the structure and flames coming from a cooler unit.

Crews from the Sheldon and Sanborn fire departments responded, and Sheldon Community Ambulance also responded. 

Firefighters entered the second floor to tackle flames coming from the cooler door.

After containing the fire, another crew worked with Kent employees to cut an opening at the bottom of the cooler, remove product and extinguish remaining hot spots.

The operation lasted approximately three hours and required about 4,000 gallons of water.

Damage was confined to the cooler and its contents. None of the 26 firefighters who responded was injured. Investigators are still determining the cause of the incident.

A third fire call followed on Friday night, when firefighters responded to AGP after reports of fires in its baghouses. The units sustained heavy damage, although no injuries were reported.

Baghouses are industrial dust-collection systems that use fabric filters to remove particulate matter from exhaust air. Facilities use them to control airborne dust.

The three incidents have raised questions about whether the events are connected or coincidental.

However, authorities have not confirmed any link between the incidents, and they are still investigating the causes.

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.