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Dealloying of a Nickel–Aluminum Bronze Impeller

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Abstract

A brackish water pump impeller was replaced after 4 years of service, while its predecessor lasted over 40 years. The subsequent failure investigation determined that the nickel–aluminum bronze (NAB) impeller was not properly heat treated, which made the impeller susceptible to aluminum dealloying. The dealloying corrosion was exacerbated by erosion, because the pump was slightly oversized. This investigation recommended proper heat treatment of NAB alloys that are to be used in salt water or brackish service. Additionally, the investigation recommended closer evaluation of new pumps to ensure that they are properly sized.

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References

  1. Michels, H.T., Kain, R.M.: Effect of composition and microstructure on the seawater corrosion resistance of nickel–aluminum bronze. Paper No.03262, NACE Corrosion/2003, NACE International, Houston, Texas

  2. R.J. Ferrara, T.E. Caton, Review of dealloying of cast aluminum bronze and nickel–aluminum bronze alloys in sea water service. Mater. Perform. 21(2), 30–34 (1982)

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  3. ASTM B148–97: Standard Specification for Aluminum-Bronze Castings. ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA (Reapproved 2003)

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Constellation Energy Group, 1015 Brandon Shores Road, Baltimore, MD, 21226, USA

    Albert M. Olszewski

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  1. Albert M. Olszewski
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Correspondence to Albert M. Olszewski.

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Olszewski, A.M. Dealloying of a Nickel–Aluminum Bronze Impeller. J Fail. Anal. and Preven. 8, 505–508 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11668-008-9181-2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11668-008-9181-2

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