Investigation of Erosion and Corrosion of Turbine Materials in Wet Oxygenated Steam

Abstract

Abstract Steam from the boiling water reactor of the Dresden Nuclear Power Station will enter the turbine at 869 psia and 525 F with ½ per cent moisture and with oxygen concentration higher than normal in power-plant practice. This paper discusses a series of preliminary laboratory tests evaluating the resistance of various materials for turbines and related components to erosion (impact, washing, wire-drawing) and corrosion (weight loss, pitting depths, crevice, and galvanic attack) in wet, oxygenated steam. Materials tested included carbon and low-alloy steels and cast iron, austenitic and ferritic stainless steels, Monel, cupronickels, leaded bronze, Stellite, and Ductile Ni-Resist No. 3. It is concluded that, with proper design, conventional materials may be used in the Dresden turbine except in a few critical areas.