Boiler Tube Failure
Boiler Tube Failure
(OP)
At least some boiler systems I have evaluated do NOT have a high TUBE temperature (not high steam temp)shutdown.
I would appreciate comments as to why a boiler would not have high TUBE temperature shutdown instrumentation to protect the tubes from overheating and failure.
Thanks...
I would appreciate comments as to why a boiler would not have high TUBE temperature shutdown instrumentation to protect the tubes from overheating and failure.
Thanks...





RE: Boiler Tube Failure
Yes, you can add TC's to monitor tube metal temperature in a waterwall circuit. However, you have maintenance associated with TC's and after time they fail in agressive service environments. I can deal with tube failures with little impact on safety versus an entire watertube boiler that is starved of feedwater and suddenly water is added.
RE: Boiler Tube Failure
There have been cases where the unit was operated for over 1 yr at final steam ( and metal) temperatures more than 100F over the design limit, and the result was catastrophic failure of the transfer pipe with fatalities ( Mohave 1987). So I think the state regs should recognize the issue and ensure the licensed operators recognize it.