Investigation of failure of tubes in a heat exchanger for corrosion of dissolved oxygen

Abstract

Failure of tubes in a heat exchanger was studied through analysis of Optical microscope, water analysis, X-ray diffraction pattern, and Scanning Electron Microscope. The damage tube displays a large unsmooth corrosion area with decreased hardness. Moreover, two different corrosion layers were found on the waterside of the pipe surface. The tube failed due to dissolved oxygen in feed water. Some recommendations of delaying corrosion was also put forward.