TRACK: Sustainability/Reliability
Operating Facilities have varied and challenging processes: they require damage resistant materials at low and high operating temperatures. Failures are prevented by using specialized mechanical design and materials. However, substantial corrosion and cracking damage can occur due to many reasons such as unforeseen contaminants, severe service, service condition changes, material characteristics not covered in basic specifications, and effects of long-term service.
Vigilant inspections are essential since these demanding processes can develop dangerous leaks and potential explosions. This presentation summarizes case studies illustrating common forms of process equipment damage for various materials used in industry and the inspection and non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques used to identify them.
Case Studies include corrosion, cracking, and degradation failures from carbon steels, austenitic stainless steels, commercially pure titanium, high temperature alloys, and non-metallics. The intended audience is for any operating facility that handles cooling waters, has hydrogen production, puts materials in high temperature service, or insulates piping and components.