The use of Creep Strength Enhanced Ferritic Steels (CSEFs), such as T91 and T23, is becoming more
prevalent as boilers are used in cycling service and at higher steam temperatures. The service
experience of these materials has presented some unpleasant surprises. There are several damage
mechanisms that are commonly found in these types of materials that will be discussed. These
mechanisms include both anodic and cathodic stress corrosion cracking (SCC), brittle fracture induced
by improper processing, creep, and service-induced hydrogen cracking. Examples of several of these
failures are included.
Key words: CSEF steels, tube damage mechanisms, SCC, hydrogen cracking, brittle fracture, T91,
T23, creep