Causes of Crankcase Explosion As we all know, for a fire or explosion to take place, there are three basic elements that are required to complete the fire triangle. These three components are – heat/energy, oxygen and fuel. In the presence of all these three elements, in proportional ratio and within the flammable limits, the reaction which causes fire or explosion becomes cyclic. In the crankcase of the main engine, the oil particles are churned into small particles of up to 200 micro meters in diameter. These small particles cannot ignite readily even with some naked flame. If a hot spot comes in contact with these small particles, it reduces the size of these particles, resulting in the formation of mist, which can be readily ignited with a hot spot. In the crankcase of the main engine all the three elements required for fire are available. Lubricating oil as the fuel source is sufficiently present, the air as one of the three things necessary is also present and the heat or...