Methodology to estimate remaining service life of piping components against Erosion Corrosion

Loss of material by erosion corrosion is one of the primary degradation mechanisms in feed water heater extraction pipes of PHWR Nuclear Power Plants. If the thickness of the piping component is reduced below the critical level, it cannot sustain the load and results in leakage or rupture. The paper includes the factors affecting Erosion Corrosion and prediction of Erosion corrosion rate using Kastner´s model. Using predicted erosion corrosion rate, the remaining thickness and the remaining life of piping component is estimated and prioritized which helps in proper scheduling of maintenance activities thus reducing the down time which otherwise could result in fatal accidents causing damage to the plant and equipment and also to human beings. A case of Outlet Feeder Pipes (straight) which are susceptible for Erosion Corrosion is presented.