Detecting stress corrosion cracking at temperature

Citation

(2004), "Detecting stress corrosion cracking at temperature", Sensor Review, Vol. 24 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/sr.2004.08724cab.004

Detecting stress corrosion cracking at temperature

Detecting stress corrosion cracking at temperature

Keywords: Corrosion, Stress

Recent plant failures have shown the need for easier more rapid detection of the initial presence of chloride stress corrosion cracking (SCC). Under combined conditions of stress, environment and temperatures which may be up to 150°C, failure may be catastrophically rapid. Ideally the detection of cracking should be carried out at these temperatures in order to avoid expensive plant shut-downs.

TWI has therefore, launched a Joint Industry Project to investigate the detection of SCC at elevated temperature.

A range of NDE methods will be assessed for their ability to detect SCC on as-welded surfaces at a range of temperatures. The methods include acoustic emission, eddy currents, ACFM, dye penetrant, ultrasonics, thermography and shearography.

The work will be carried out in stages – inspection of parent plate at low temperatures, welds at low temperatures, welds at high temperatures and a monitored pipe test.

Duplex and 316 stainless steel pipe will be tested with both internal and external initiation, making the work of interest to a wide range of industries.

Initial meetings have taken place and a number of companies have expressed an intention to join the project.

Further sponsors and manufacturers offering additional methods are most welcome and should contact: John Rudlin. Tel: +44 (0)1223 891162; E-mail: john.rudlin@twi.co.uk