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The Corrosion of Zirconium Alloys in 900°F Steam

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/4288730· OSTI ID:4288730
 [1]
  1. Nuclear Metals, Inc., Cambridge, MA (United States)

Steam at 900°F is a very corrosive medium for zirconium alloys. Zircaloy-2 and Zircaloy-3 have poor resistance at this temperature. The presence of tin is highly detrimental to the corrosion resistance of zirconium alloys. Additions of nickel, chromium, and to a lesser extent, iron extend the life of zirconium-base alloys to as long as sixty days before spalling commences. Quenching from the beta phase impairs the corrosion resistance of nickel and chromium alloys and extends the life of iron alloys and the Zircaloys. In general, a pre-treatment of 10 days in 680°F water has no effect on the corrosion resistance of the alloys tested.

Research Organization:
Nuclear Metals, Inc., Cambridge, MA (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
US Atomic Energy Commission (AEC)
NSA Number:
NSA-13-000760
OSTI ID:
4288730
Report Number(s):
NMI--1208
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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