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U.S. Department of Energy
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Inspecting the circulating water system at Crystal River Unit 3 for evidence of microbial corrosion: Final report

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:6418668

Portions of the circulating water system (CWS) at the Crystal River-3 nuclear plant were examined for indications of microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC). This system uses untreated seawater from the Gulf of Mexico for tertiary cooling and has been in operation since 1977. The inspection results indicated that active MIC was present in the inlet piping and probably in other areas in the CWS. Samples removed from nodules and pitted areas revealed high concentrations of viable microorganisms, corrosion products and fatty acids indicative of anaerobic metabolism. MIC was seen only in association with stainless steel weldments. The principal attack was on the interdendritic ferrite in the weld fusion zone. Several changes made over a period of time have apparently resulted in an improvement in condenser tube performance and a reduction in MIC activity in the water boxes since 1986. Several recommendations were made to further reduce or eliminate MIC in the inlet piping. 18 refs., 17 figs., 7 tabs.

Research Organization:
Electric Power Research Inst., Palo Alto, CA (USA); Babcock and Wilcox Co., Lynchburg, VA (USA). Research and Development Div.
OSTI ID:
6418668
Report Number(s):
EPRI-NP-6224
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English