Saxonburg, Penn.-Fire destroyed Excell Minerals’ plant in Saxonburg, Penn., causing losses in the millions and shutting down production – at least for the time being – of the company’s custom-blend golf course Excellerator brand. About 100 firefighters from 20 nearby volunteer companies responded after the flames broke out the afternoon of July 5, sending a thick cloud of smoke billowing into the air. Their efforts were hampered by the afternoon heat and the lack of water. Two firefighters reportedly suffered minor heat exhaustion but didn’t have to be taken to a hospital. There were no injuries inside because the plant was vacated for the week, but damage is being estimated at $3.5 million. Theresa Winell, company customer services department, said the fire was “quite a loss,” which was the only word from the company last week. Excell’s parent, Harsco Corp. in Pittsburgh, referred questions to Excell officials, who had not returned calls at press time. Local fire department officials indicated that further investigation was needed to determine the cause of the fire. Excell describes Excellerator as a custom blended, prilled, calcium silicate product that contains high levels of calcium, magnesium, and other micronutrients. It says it contains the highest levels (39 percent) of soluble silicon known in the industry. Excell has a network of distributors that stretches from coast to coast and internationally. One of the distributors who was contacted didn’t know about the fire, but said he had received his last shipment of Excellerator only a few days ago. “I guess we just lucked out in that respect,” he remarked.
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