Heathrow airport closed

[Superhoop]

This looks like it may be causing a bit of an issue, no flights in or out.. Fire in a nearby electricity substation has taken out power to the airport

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/live/cly24zvvwxlt

[el romeral]

I am surprised at the ferocity of the fire. What is actually burning there, as there never seems to be a lot of combustible material at electrical sub stations?

[Solocle]

el romeral said:

I am surprised at the ferocity of the fire. What is actually burning there, as there never seems to be a lot of combustible material at electrical sub stations?

Large transformers like those found at substations tend to be immersed in oil, as it insulates electrically, but transfers heat.

Now, to set even mineral oil on fire, you do need a fairly large spark... oh, wait.

[el romeral]

Solocle said:

Large transformers like those found at substations tend to be immersed in oil, as it insulates electrically, but transfers heat.

Now, to set even mineral oil on fire, you do need a fairly large spark... oh, wait.

Ahh ok that explains it, thanks.

[S6PNJ]

Being discussed here: https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&...