Selection of the Optimum Ndt Methods for Determination of Steam Boiler Remaining Life

During the lifetime of any industrial equipment, including steam boilers and pressure vessels, it may be required, for various reasons, to estimate its remaining service lifetime. The operation of steam boilers is a complex process resulting in metal fatigue due to temperature cycling and pressure fluctuation, as well as in erosion and chemical depositions. Thus, during boiler operation, various flaws appear, such as cracks in locations of high mechanical stress and wall thickness reduction due to corrosion or erosion. This work aims to assist the engineering consultant to select the best available non-destructive technique (magnetic particles, X-rays, ultrasonics etc.) to estimate the remaining life of steam boilers. The methodology chosen for this purpose should cause as little process disruption and downtime as possible, while it must not affect the physical integrity and mechanical strength of the boiler.