bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Creep-Rupture Performance of Inconel Alloy 740 and Welds
Authors: Shingledecker J.P. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Inconel alloy 740/740H (ASME Code Case 2702) is an age-hardenable nickel-based alloy designed for advanced ultrasupercritical (A-USC) steam boiler components (superheaters, reheaters, piping, etc.). In this work, creep testing, beyond 40,000 hours was conducted a series of alloy 740 heats of varying product form, chemistry, and grain size. Long-term creep-rupture strength was found to be weakly dependent on grain size. Analysis of the time-to-rupture data was conducted to ensure long-term strength projections and development of ASME stress allowables. Testing was also conducted on welded joints in alloy 740 with different filler metal and heat-treatment combinations. This analysis shows the current weld strength reduction factor of 30% (Weld Strength Factor of 0.70) mandated by ASME Code Case 2702 is appropriate for 740 filler metal but other options exist to improve strength. Based on these results, it was found that alloy 740 has the highest strength and temperature capability of all the potential A-USC alloys available today.
Discussion of Delivered Condition Specified in ASME Code Case 2702 on Inconel 740H Used for A-USC Boiler
Authors: Yang Hua-Chun , Wang Lin-Sen , Wang Dong-Ping , Mao Shi-Yong , Yang Xiao-Chuan , Lai Xian-Hong , Yang Jin-Bing , Yang Wen 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Delivered condition of Inconel740H specified in ASME Code Case 2702 is solution heat treated and aged condition, fabricating performances are also based on the condition, and a re-annealing and aging shall be performed if cold forming to strains is over 5%. These almost harsh requirements bring great inconvenience for its engineering practice and utilization. The comparative bending tests on 740H tubes in solution heat treated + aged condition and solution heat treated condition were performed, and the rules’ reasonability of the specification on delivered condition was discussed and analyzed from point view of deformability and weldability in the paper. The bending test results showed that tube bent was difficult because of its high strength and limited deforming capacity in solution heat treated + aged condition. Therefore, the material supplied in the solution condition may be better from fabricating points. Whether re-solution for the bent tube is performed after bending depends on its bending radius, followed by welding and post weld heat treatment of component (this treatment can also be the aging treatment for annealed sector at the same time), this treating manner can meet regulatory requirements. For solution tubes, however, there are some inconveniences to its engineering application because fewer research studies were carried out on its properties up to now, and no regulations on them were given for the material in the specification. Suggestions are: 1) deeply investigating the properties of tubes in solution condition, including mechanical and fabricating performances, 2) adding the mechanical properties, maximum allowable cold forming to stain without performing re-solution and weld strength reduction factor of solution material to the code case.
Experience in Manufacture of High Chromium Forged Rotor Steels
Authors: Di Gianfrancesco A. , Budano S. , Lombardi P. , Paura M. , Neri S. , Calderini M. , Longari N. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Driven by the need to reduce CO2 emissions through increased steam temperature and pressure in new power plants, research in Europe led to the development of enhanced high-chromium steels with improved creep resistance and service temperature stability. After years of development, Rotor E, a steel composition created during the COST programs (501, 522, and 536), has become a commercially available product. While traditionally forged and remelted using electroslag remelting (ESR), this paper demonstrates the successful production of large rotor components using a conventional process without ESR, achieved through tailored process control. This paper details Società delle Fucine's (SdF) current production of Rotor E using a conventional route based on ladle furnace and vacuum degassing, as well as the mechanical and creep behaviors of the resulting forged products. Additionally, SdF produced a prototype FB2 rotor using a conventional process. FB2, a 10% Cr steel containing cobalt and boron but lacking tungsten, emerged from the COST 522 program as the best candidate for scaling up from a laboratory experiment to a full-sized industrial component. Notably, the addition of boron effectively improved the microstructure's stability and consequently enhanced the creep resistance of these new, advanced martensitic steels. Finally, the paper will present updates on the long-term characterization program for the FB2 steel trial rotor.
Formation of Diffusion Zones in Coated Ni-Al-X Ternary Alloys and Ni-Based Superalloys
Authors: Suzuki A. S. , West G. D. , Thomson R. C. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Coatings are an essential part of the materials system to protect the turbine blades from oxidation and corrosive attack during service. Inter-diffusion of alloying elements between a turbine blade substrate and their coatings is a potential concern for coated turbine blades at ever increasing operating temperatures because this can cause the formation of undesirable Secondary Reaction Zones (SRZs), which may degrade the mechanical properties of coated Ni-based superalloys. Understanding the effects of each element on the SRZ formation is essential in order to understand both the mechanism and inter-diffusion behaviour between coatings and substrates. In this research, a number of simpler aluminized ternary Ni-Al-X (where X is Co, Cr, Re, Ru or Ta) alloys were investigated in order to elucidate the separate effects of each element on the microstructural evolution, especially at the coating/substrate interface. The aluminized ternary alloys developed distinctive diffusion zones, depending on the third alloy element, ‘X’. Specifically, it has been found that both Ni-Al-Re and Ni-Al-Ta alloys developed a continuous SRZ-like diffusion layer. This diffusion zone persisted in the Ni-Al-Re alloys after high temperature exposure, indicating that Re has a stronger effect on SRZ formation than Ta.
Development and Evaluation of Large-Scale Rotor Forging for Over 700 °C-Class A-USC Steam Turbine
Authors: Miyashita Shigekazu , Yoshioka Yomei , Kubo Takahiro 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
A Ni-based superalloy named "TOS1X-2" has been developed as a material for A-USC turbine rotors. TOS1X-2 is based on Inconel Alloy 617 and has a modified chemical composition to achieve the higher strength needed for over 700°C-class A-USCs. Aging heat treatment conditions were determined from the mechanical properties and microstructure. We manufactured an actual-scale rotor model made of TOS1X-2. A 31 ton ingot was manufactured, followed by forging of the model rotor with a diameter of 1100 mm and length of 2400 mm without any defects. Metallurgical and mechanical analyses of the model rotor were carried out. All metallurgical and mechanical features of the TOS1X-2 rotor model satisfied the requirements for not only 700°C-class but also over 700°C-class A-USC turbine rotor.
Similar and Dissimilar Welding of Nickel-Based Superalloys for A-USC Steam Turbine Rotors in NextGenPower Project
Authors: Hreben Stanislav , Vitek Petr , Zednik Vaclav , Prchlik Lubos 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) has become promising technology to reduce CO2 emissions. However, as a consequence of CCS installation, the electrical efficiency of coal fired power plant will drop down. This phenomenon requires increase in base efficiency of contemporary power plants. Efficiency of recent generation of power plants is limited mainly by maximum live steam temperature of 620°C. This limitation is driven by maximal allowed working temperatures of modern 9–12% Cr martensitic steels. Live steam temperatures of 750°C are needed to compensate the efficiency loss caused by CCS and achieve a net efficiency of 45%. Increase in the steam temperature up to 750°C requires application of new advanced materials. Precipitation hardened nickel-based superalloys with high creep-rupture strength at elevated temperatures are promising candidates for new generation of steam turbines operating at temperatures up to 750°C. Capability to manufacture full-scale forged rotors and cast turbine casings from nickel-based alloys with sufficient creep-rupture strength at 750°C/105 hours is investigated. Welding of nickel-based alloys in homogeneous or heterogeneous combination with 10% Cr martensitic steel applicable for IP turbine rotors is shown in this paper. Structure and mechanical properties of prepared homogeneous and heterogeneous weld joints are presented.
Supercritical Unit Experience with Grade T23 Evaporator Tube Failures
Authors: Dupont Eric 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Xcel Energy’s Comanche Unit 3 experienced widespread cracking of T23 membrane wall tubes within the evaporator section, initially occurring during the boiler construction phase, primarily at shop and field tube butt welds. The majority of the tube cracking was attributed to stress-corrosion cracking (SCC), and a lesser number of fabrication-related hydrogen induced cracking (HIC), weld solidification cracking, and brittle cracking within tube swage sections were also experienced. Hundreds of tubes were replaced prior to Unit commissioning, due to both actual tube leaks and those replaced due to weldment cracking and other identified weld defects during radiographic testing. Elevated stress levels and material susceptibility (i.e. hardness in the as-welded condition) were considered the critical factors in the tube cracking.
Research on Water Wall Tubes and Welded Joints of 1000MW USC Tower Boiler
Authors: Wang B.C. , Xueyuan Xu , Feng Zhu Yu , Anfang Qi , Zhengran Lu , Bo Zhang , Yongqiang Jin , Xiaoli Lu 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
In this paper, the performance of T23 and 12Cr1MoVG water wall tubes as well as their welded joints in engineering applications is reported. It was found that the T23 water wall tube may have water leak problems during its operation. In order to make sure the safe operation, leakage reasons of T23 water wall tube were analyzed and improvement measures were taken. Recommendations on the choice of water wall material of 1000MW USC tower boiler are given.
Effect of Stress State on Microstructural Change during Creep in Grade 92 Steel Welded Joint
Authors: Sawada Kota , Kimura Kazuhiro , Tabuchi Masaaki 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
In order to clarify the effect of stress state on microstructural changes during creep, the microstructure was observed in the central part of the cross section of the fine-grained heat-affected zone (FGHAZ) and in the surface region of the FGHAZ in Gr.92 steel welded joint. Creep tests were performed under constant load in air at 650°C, using cross-weld specimens. The creep strength of welded joint was lower than that of base metal. Type IV fracture occurred in the long-term. Creep voids were detected in the FGHAZ after the fracture. Number of creep voids was higher in the central part of the cross section of the FGHAZ than in the surface region of the FGHAZ. It was checked the multiaxiality of stress during creep was higher in the central part of the cross section of the FGHAZ than in the surface region of the FGHAZ. The recovery of dislocation structure occurred after creep in the base metal and the FGHAZ. Mean subgrain size increased with increasing time to rupture. However, there was no difference of change of subgrain size during creep in the central part of the cross section of the FGHAZ and in the surface region of the FGHAZ. The growth of M23C6 carbide and MX carbonitrides was observed during creep in the base metal and the FGHAZ. Laves phase precipitation occurred during creep. There was no difference of the change of mean diameter of MX carbonitrides in the central part of the cross section of the FGHAZ and in the surface region of the FGHAZ after creep. However, the growth rate of M23C6 carbide in the FGHAZ was much higher in the central part of the cross section than in the surface region.
The Effect of Post Weld Heat Treatment on the Creep Behaviour and Microstructural Evolution in Grade 92 Steel Welds for Steam Pipe Applications
Authors: Xu X. , West G.D. , Thomson R.C. , Parker J. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Grade 92 steel has been widely applied in the power generation industry for use as steam pipes, headers, tubes, etc. owing to a good combination of creep and corrosion resistance. For the welding of thick section pipes, a multi-pass submerged arc welding process is typically used to achieve sufficient toughness in the weld. To relieve the internal stress in the welds and to stabilise their microstructures, a post weld heat treatment (PWHT) is commonly applied. The heat treatment conditions used for the PWHT have a significant effect on both the resulting microstructure and the creep behaviour of the welds. In this study, interrupted creep tests were carried out on two identical Grade 92 welds that had been given PWHTs at two different temperatures: 732°C and 760°C. It was found that the weld with the lower PWHT temperature had a significantly reduced stain rate during the creep test. In addition, microstructural examination of the welds revealed that the primary location of creep damage was in the heat affected zone in the sample with the lower PWHT temperature, whereas it was in the weld metal in the sample with the higher PWHT temperature. To understand the effect of the different PWHT temperatures on the microstructure, initially the microstructures in the head portions of the two creep test bars were compared. This comparison was performed quantitatively using a range of electron/ion microscopy based techniques. It was apparent that in the sample subjected to the higher PWHT temperature, larger Laves phase particles occurred and increased matrix recovery was observed compared with the sample subjected to the lower PWHT temperature.
Evaluation of Remaining Life of Gr.91 Welded Elbow Served at USC Plant for Long-Term
Authors: Nagai Seiji , Yaguchi Masatsugu , Lin Shan , Yamazaki Souichi 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Type IV damage was found at several ultra-supercritical (USC) plants that used creep-strength-enhanced ferritic (CSEF) steels in Japan, and the assessment of the remaining life of the CSEF steels is important for electric power companies. However, there has been little research on the remaining life of material that has actually served at a plant. In this study, the damage and remaining life of a Gr.91 welded elbow pipe that served for 54,000 h at a USC plant were investigated. First, microscopic observation and hardness testing were conducted on specimen cut from the welded joint; the results indicated that the damage to the elbow was more severe in the fine-grain heat-affected zone near the inner surface. Furthermore, creep rupture tests were performed using specimens cut from the welded joint of the elbow, and from these results, the remaining life was evaluated using the time fraction rule as almost 110,000 h. Finite-element analysis was also conducted to assess the damage and remaining life, and the results were compared with the experimental results.
Effects of Alloy Composition and Surface Engineering on Steam Oxidation Resistance
Authors: Pint B. A. , Dryepondt S. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Because of the problems experienced with steam-side oxide scale exfoliation in commercial power plants, there has been increased interest in understanding the steam oxidation resistance of 300- series stainless steels such as 347H and 304H. Model alloys were used in an attempt to understand the effect of varying Ni (9-12%) and Cr (16-20%) on steam oxidation resistance at 650°C. However, the model alloys generally showed superior oxidation resistance than commercial alloys of similar composition. Several surface engineering solutions also were investigated. The commercially favored solution is shot peening. Laboratory steam testing at 650°C found that annealing temperatures of ≥850°C eliminated the benefit of shot peening and a correlation was observed with starting hardness in the peened region. This effect of annealing has implications for the fabrication of shot peened tubing. Another route to improving oxidation resistance is the use of oxidation resistant diffusion coatings, which can be deposited inexpensively by a vapor slurry process. Uniform coatings were deposited on short tube sections and annealed at 1065°C to retain good 650°C creep properties. The coating was thicker than has been investigated in laboratory processes resulting in increased brittleness when the coating was assessed using 4-point bending.
Inconel Filler Metal 72M Provides Corrosion and Wear Resistance and Low “Delta T” Through Walls of Tubing in Fossil-Fired Boilers
Authors: Kiser Samuel D. , Caruso Martin , Zhang Rengang , Gaal Brian 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Inconel Filler Metal 72 (FM 72) and Incoclad 671/800H co-extruded tubing have been successfully used for over 20 years to protect boiler tubing from high-temperature degradation. A newer alloy, FM 72M, offers superior weldability and the lowest corrosion rate in simulated low NOx environments. Both FM 72 and 72M show promise in addressing challenges like circumferential cracking and corrosion fatigue in waterwall tubing overlays. Additionally, 72M’s superior wear resistance makes it ideal for replacing erosion shields in superheater and reheater tubing. Beyond improved protection, these alloys exhibit increased hardness and thermal conductivity over time, leading to reduced temperature difference across the tube wall and consequently, enhanced boiler efficiency and lower maintenance costs. This paper discusses the historical selection of optimal alloys for waterwall and upper boiler tubing overlays, analyzes past failure mechanisms, and highlights the key properties of successful choices like FM 72 and 72M.
Flux Cored Wires for Welding Advanced 9-10% Cr Steels
Authors: Baumgartner Susanne , Schnitzer Ronald , Schuler Monika , Schmidtne-Kelity Edina , Lochbichler Claus 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Flux cored wires are worldwide used in power generation industry due to their technical and economic advantages. For welding P91 and P92 flux cored wires with a rutile slag system are available for several years. Results of long-term investigations up to 30.000 h show that specimens of all weld metal meet the requirements of the base material. Following the recent demand of reduced Mn+Ni content the chemical composition of all weld metal has been modified. For P91 a matching flux cored wire with Mn+Ni&lt;1wt% and for P92 with Mn+Ni&lt;1.2wt% is now available. In this paper the mechanical properties of all weld metal and welded joints are being presented. Latest developments in cast materials have shown that the so-called CB2 (GX13CrMoCoVNbNB 10-1-1) enables steam temperatures up to 620°C (1148°F). Therefore a matching flux cored wire with low Ni-content has been developed. Results of welding procedure qualification and first experience of manufacturing industrial components show the successful implementation of this new material grade and welding consumable.
Application of EPRI P87 in Dissimilar Austenitic-Martensitic Welded Joints of Tempaloy AA-1 and T92 Steel Grades
Authors: Urzynicok Michael , Jachym Robert , Kwieciński Krzysztof , Mariani Paola , Minami Yusuke 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Dynamic development of steels used in power engineering industry for the production of boilers characterised by supercritical parameters poses new welding challenges. The introduction of new combinations of alloying agents aimed at obtaining the best possible mechanical properties, including creep resistance, affects the weldability of new steels. Each of the latter have to undergo many tests, particularly as regards bending and welding, in order to enable the development of technologies ensuring failure-free production and assembly of boiler systems. Martensitic steels containing 9% Cr, used in the manufacturing of steam superheaters, are characterised by good creep resistance and, at the same time, low oxidation resistance at a temperature in excess of 600°C. In turn, steels with a 12% Cr content are characterised by significantly higher oxidation resistance, but accompanied by lower strength at higher temperatures, which translates to their limited application in the production of boilers operating at the highest parameters. The niche between the aforesaid steels is perfectly filled by austenitic steels, the creep resistance and oxidation resistance of which are unquestionable. This article presents experience gained while welding dissimilar joints of advanced steels TEMPALOY AA-1 and T92, with the use of EPRI P87, Inconel 82 and Inconel 617 filler metals. The tests involving the said steel grades belong to the very few carried out in the world.
Practical Guide to Welding Inconel Alloy 740H
Authors: Gollihue Ronald D. , Baker Brian A. , Dierksheide Joseph E. , Tanzosh Jim M. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The use of high-nickel superalloys has greatly increased among many industries. This is especially the case for advanced coal-fired boilers, where the latest high temperature designs will require materials capable of withstanding much higher operating temperatures and pressures than current designs. Inconel alloy 740H (UNS N07740) is a new nickel- based alloy that serves as a candidate for steam header pipe and super-heater tubing in coal-fired boilers. Alloy 740H has been shown to be capable of withstanding the extreme operating conditions of an advanced ultra-super-critical (AUSC) boiler, which is the latest boiler design, currently under development. As with all high nickel alloys, welding of alloy 740H can be very challenging, even to an experienced welder. Weldability challenges are compounded when considering that the alloy may be used in steam headers, where critical, thick-section and stub-to-header weld joints are present. This paper is intended to describe the proper procedures developed over years of study that will allow for ASME code quality welds in alloy 740H with matching composition filler metals.
Effect of Copper Addition on the Toughness of New Z-Phase Strengthened 12% Chromium Steels
Authors: Liu Fang , Andrén Hans-Olof 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Two Z-phase strengthened test steels with similar chemical composition were studied. The main difference in composition is the addition of 1 wt% Cu into one of the steels (referred to as “ZCu”). Mechanical testing was performed. The impact strength is very different: 3 J vs. 46.3 J, for the original and the Z-Cu steel, respectively. In the original steel that contains no Cu, much more Laves-phase (Fe2(W,Mo)) precipitates had formed along the prior austenite grain boundaries than in the steel with Cu addition. This is believed to be the reason for the difference in impact strength. Furthermore, the Cu addition also influenced the morphology of Laves-phase precipitates; fine rod-shaped instead of coarse equiaxed Laves-phase particles were observed in Z-Cu steel in comparison to the original steel. No partitioning of Cu into the Laves-phase particles was detected by using atom probe tomography (APT). The main function of Cu seems to be the formation of Cu precipitates that act as nucleation site for Laves-phase.