Overview of stress corrosion in nuclear reactors from the late 1950s to the 1990s

摘要

This report examines the problems that US and certain foreign reactors have experienced with intergranular and transgranular stress corrosion cracking. Included is a review of the failure modes and mechanisms, various corrective measures, and the techniques available to detect and size the cracks. The information has been organized into four time periods: late 1950s to mid 1960s; mid 1960s to 1975; 1975 to 1985; and 1985 to 1991. The key findings concerning BWRs are: Corrective actions have led to a substantial reduction of IGSCC; Control of carbon levels - through use of ELC or NG grades of austenitic stainless steels - should minimize IGSCC; Control of residual stresses, particularly with IHSI, greatly reduces the incidence of IGSCC; Hydrogen water treatment controls the oxygen and should limit IGSCC; The problem with furnace-sensitized safe ends is well recognized and should not recur; In most cases, severe circumferential SCC should lead to detectable leakage so that leak-before-break can be identified; IGSCC of austenitic stainless steels can occur in all pipe sizes from smallest to largest, especially when stress, sensitization, and oxygen are all present. In the case of PWRs, it is clear that the incidents of primary water stress corrosion cracking appear to be increasing. Cases containing steam generators, austenitic stainless steels, and Inconels have been known for years. Now it is occurring in safe ends and piping at very low oxygen levels. Secondary side water chemistry must be controlled to prevent SCC in PWRs. 18 refs. (Atomindex citation 28:021735)