Flow accelerated corrosion, corrosion fatigue, and stress corrosion are the three most common failure mechanisms for HRSG boiler tubes and components. The causes of these failure mechanisms in HRSGs are discussed and examples of each mechanism provided. Challenges associated with predicting high risk locations for inspection are discussed. Guidance is available to diagnose these failure mechanisms in the field. Areas of research needed to assist designers, operators, and maintenance staff in predicting and preventing failures are also identified.
Keywords: Heat Recovery Steam Generators, HRSG, Boiler Tube Failures, Flow Accelerated Corrosion, Corrosion Fatigue, Stress Corrosion