Apple iPad production rocked by explosions.

[SeaKing]

Looks like the Fire, Nook and other "tablets" aren't the only things bugging Apple's iPad.

The production facilities are being rocked by explosions.

"Explosion rocks Apple supplier's factory"
Riteng in Shanghai

http://news.cnet.com/8301-13579_3-57...?tag=cnetRiver

2nd explosion this year to affect Apple.
The other at Foxconn.

[Daithi]

I wonder what is causing these explosions. Of course the first thing that comes to mind is terrorism or sabotage that doesn't get reported in the Chinese media. However, it is probably more likely aluminum dust in the air that a spark ignites (or something along those lines). Either way, I could just imagine if something like that were occurring in the U.S., and I quickly realize why iPads and Kindles are not being produced here.

[RainingLemur]

That's...terrible to hear. I hope it wasn't any kind of sabotage. I doubt that it was, but I hope that it wasn't on purpose.

[Phogg]

Originally Posted by Daithi

I wonder what is causing these explosions. Of course the first thing that comes to mind is terrorism or sabotage that doesn't get reported in the Chinese media. However, it is probably more likely aluminum dust in the air that a spark ignites (or something along those lines). Either way, I could just imagine if something like that were occurring in the U.S., and I quickly realize why iPads and Kindles are not being produced here.

My first thought is either reverse wired capacitor, or a propane tank on a fork lift. It could also be diecasting machinery if they are making metal parts.

How big an explosion are we talking?

[david_e]

Originally Posted by SeaKing

Looks like the Fire, Nook and other "tablets" aren't the only things bugging Apple's iPad.

Dobby says muggles is sad.

[J. Strnad]

Time to remember that our inexpensive Chinese-made tech goodies come at a price to the Chinese people who work in conditions that we would not tolerate in the US.

[SeaKing]

More information--

"Explosion at Pegatron Factory for Apple Products, Injuries Reported"

http://www.macrumors.com/2011/12/18/...ries-reported/

"Explosion at Factory Run By Apple Supplier Pegatron Injures 61"

http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2397840,00.asp

"Apple iPad 2 factory explosion caused by Aluminum dust again"
(my underline)

http://www.slashgear.com/apple-ipad-...gain-20203591/

following translation not so good- (the local view)

http://dotnetmobile.com/2011/12/expl...rted-ios-blog/

Dust is always a problem for flammability or explosions.
coal dust
cotton or other fiber dust
tire grinding dust
metal dust
even grain dust (the grains you eat)

[Phogg]

Powdered aluminum together with rust gives you a crude thermite. That would explain the death toll. Metal fires are always bad and if I recall correctly water would only feed this one.