Characterization of Corrosion Products in RTPF and All-Aluminum Microchannel Heat Exchangers

摘要

Phases and morphology of corrosion products formed on failed round tube and plate fin (RTPF) and all-aluminum microchannel heat exchangers are characterized. RTPF heat exchanger experiences formicary corrosion or ant nest corrosion due to interaction with carboxylic compounds. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) are used to determine different compounds formed on infinite loop copper RTPF heat exchanger. Complex compounds of zinc carbonate hydroxide, cupric oxide, cuprous oxides were also found on RTPF heat exchanger. SEM/EDS and FTIR analyses have been done on all-aluminum microchannel heat exchanger to document morphological and elemental analyses of corrosion products.