Condition assessment of high-energy piping

摘要

This paper discusses the various aging deterioration mechanisms of high-energy piping systems, metallurgical aspectsof aging submerged-arc-welded longitudinal seam welds (lessons learned based on studies made since the Mohave Failure), analytical methods for evaluating these aging mechanisms, nondestructive examination (NDE) techniques for detecting the extent of such deterioration and corrective actions required to restore such piping and components. The paper discusses the programmatic aspects of high-energy piping cndition assessment for units that plan to operate beyond their originally intended design life.