Creep deformation, damage and thermal–mechanical fatigue analysis of high temperature materials and welds

Abstract

The long term reliable, safe and economic operation of power plants is highly topical in view of the need worldwide to ensure secure, efficient power supplies. Meeting these objectives requires improved high temperature structural integrity assessment methodologies. In seeking enhanced performance, as well as improved condition monitoring of materials and components in service, the development of advanced and novel methods of structural integrity assessment remains a challenge for researchers and technologists. The increasing number of aging plants in developed countries emphasises particularly the need for improved understanding of material behaviour in service-critical components. Here, the potential early failure of weldments has become a specific concern. In addition, due to the intermittent nature of renewable energy generation, conventional power generation plants are now subjected to a higher frequency of thermomechanical cycling, as demanded by 'flexible operation'. The introduction of frequent cyclic operation will increase the possibility of thermal-mechanical fatigue of critical components in these plants.