NDT: Replication avoids unnecessary replacement of power plant components
Effective fracture prevention for components operating at high temperatures can be achieved without sacrificing useful life. This is done by nondestructive-metallographic examination at crack-susceptible locations of the components. Creep microcracks approximately one micron in size can be detected. RWTUV experience shows that, in general, the components need not be replaced or repaired until these microcracks have grown to form small creep macrocracks. The long prewarning period before macrocracks form provides assurance of safe operation for the full useful life of the components tested. The economic benefit achieved is considerable. Replication techniques have been widely applied by the authors in operating power plants since 1977. This nondestructive-evaluation method involves polishing small areas of selected piping-system components, preparing replicas of the polished areas, and examining the replicas under microscope for evidence of cavities, microcracks, or macrocracks.
- Research Organization:
- RWTUV
- OSTI ID:
- 6183294
- Journal Information:
- Power Eng.; (United States), Journal Name: Power Eng.; (United States) Vol. 88:5; ISSN POENA
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
200104* -- Fossil-Fueled Power Plants-- Components
36 MATERIALS SCIENCE
360103 -- Metals & Alloys-- Mechanical Properties
CRACK PROPAGATION
CREEP
FRACTURE MECHANICS
MATERIALS TESTING
MECHANICAL PROPERTIES
MECHANICS
METALLOGRAPHY
NONDESTRUCTIVE TESTING
PIPELINES
POWER PLANTS
STRESSES
TESTING