⚙️ De Laval Steam Turbine – Asbestos Exposure Risks

De Laval Steam Turbine Company, a well-known manufacturer of industrial and marine steam turbines, relied on asbestos insulation in many of its products for much of the 20th century. These asbestos-containing components were commonly used in power generation plants, naval ships, and industrial facilities, resulting in widespread exposure among various trades.

🏭 Company Overview

• Founded: Late 19th century (originally as De Laval Separator Company)

• Headquarters: Trenton, New Jersey (historically)

• Parent Companies: Later operated under divisions of Siemens and IMO Industries

• Industry: Power and steam turbine manufacturing

• Still in Business? ❌ No – defunct/merged

• Asbestos Trust Fund? ❌ No specific trust fund

🧱 How Asbestos Was Used

To withstand extreme heat and pressure, De Laval steam turbines and associated equipment were insulated with asbestos-based materials, such as:

• Asbestos blankets and wraps on turbine housings

• Asbestos-containing gaskets and packing inside machinery

• Thermal insulation on steam pipes and boiler assemblies

These materials were frequently disturbed during maintenance, retrofitting, or removal, releasing dangerous airborne asbestos fibers.

👷 Who Was Exposed?

🚧 Primary Exposure

• Power plant operators

• Stationary engineers

• Maintenance technicians

• Boilermakers and pipefitters

• Steamfitters

⚓ Maritime & Military Exposure

• U.S. Navy personnel—De Laval turbines were used aboard various ships

• Shipyard workers—especially during ship construction or refitting

⚖️ Lawsuits & Legal History

De Laval has been named in numerous asbestos lawsuits, primarily from:

• Navy veterans who worked on vessels with De Laval turbines

• Power plant workers involved in maintenance or turbine overhauls

• Contractors and insulators who handled or removed asbestos materials

Although no asbestos trust fund exists for De Laval, plaintiffs have pursued compensation through the courts and from parent or successor companies (such as Siemens or IMO Industries).

🧾 Asbestos Products Linked to De Laval

📊 How Many People Were Exposed?

➡️ Total Estimated Exposure: 50,000+ individuals

🪖 Military Use of De Laval Equipment

• Widely used in U.S. Navy ships, including destroyers and carriers

• Asbestos insulation and gaskets in shipboard turbines led to exposure during routine operations and ship repairs

• Navy machinists and firemen (engine room crews) were especially at risk

❓ FAQ – De Laval Asbestos Exposure

📌 Can I still file a lawsuit for exposure to De Laval products?

✅ Yes, you may still be eligible to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim if:

• You were exposed to De Laval steam turbines or associated asbestos products

• You have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis

A qualified asbestos attorney can help you trace liability to De Laval’s successors or co-defendants.

🕓 What is the statute of limitations?

Most states require filing within 2–3 years of diagnosis. It’s best to act quickly and consult legal counsel.

📄 What documentation is helpful?

• Military or work records showing turbine or boiler room work

• Witness statements or coworker testimony

• Medical diagnosis from a certified pulmonologist or oncologist

🧩 Summary – De Laval Steam Turbine & Asbestos