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Failure Analysis of Reformer Tubes

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Abstract

This paper presents a failure analysis performed to investigate cracking observed in reformer tubes. Thorough investigation showed that the tubes failed by thermal shock. No signs of advanced creep failure could be observed near the ruptures or across the microstructure. Also, no material-related abnormalities were observed in the tube microstructure. The reformer tube material is suitable for the application, and there is no need for metallurgy upgrade. It is recommended that reformer operating, start-up and shut down procedures be followed to ensure safe and sustainable operation. The condition of un-replaced tubes that had been exposed to the extreme thermal cycles has to be frequently monitored.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. SABIC Technology Centre – Jubail, Saudi Basic Industries Corporation, P.O. Box 11669, Jubail, 31961, Saudi Arabia

    S. Al-Shahrani, A. Al-Meshari & M. Rabie

Authors
  1. S. Al-Shahrani
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  2. A. Al-Meshari
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  3. M. Rabie
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Correspondence to S. Al-Shahrani.

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Al-Shahrani, S., Al-Meshari, A. & Rabie, M. Failure Analysis of Reformer Tubes. J Fail. Anal. and Preven. 13, 731–736 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11668-013-9731-0

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11668-013-9731-0

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