An Analysis of Creep Phenomena in the Power Boiler Superheaters

Higher temperatures of the power boiler superheater operation may lead to high strains caused by the creep phenomenon. This paper presents a determination of the maximum allowable operating temperature limited by the creep phenomenon for steam superheater SH3. The calculations are carried out first on the basis of applicable European standards. Then, calculations are performed based on conducted creep tests, a proposed creep model, and a finite element method (FEM) model. A detailed creep phenomenon analysis based on the conducted creep tests shows that stresses that determine the creep process are mainly caused by pressure. Normal stresses resulting from bending are mainly the effect of thermal expansion. These stresses undergo significant relaxation because of creep. The creep phenomenon analysis explains the equations of the European standards. The presented calculations enable estimation of a safe value of the operating temperature which is constant over time. The estimated time of safe operation does not take account of temperature spikes. For this reason, pressure elements working at high temperatures must be inspected regularly to assess their wear state.