Sliding pressure operation is employed by utilities to optimize efficiency during periods of reduced load demand. However, this mode of operation can lead to a deterioration in boiler tube integrity. The various mechanisms involved and their effects on tube integrity are discussed. Case histories are also provided, which illustrate these phenomena.
Keywords: Sliding Pressure, Waterwall, Erosion-Corrosion, Thermal Fatigue, Phosphate Treatment Programs, Caustic Corrosion, Phosphate Hideout, Hydrogen Damage, Steam Blanketing, Departure From Nucleate Boiling (DNE3), Stress-Rupture, Stress-Assisted Corrosion, Corrosion Fatigue