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Microbiological-Influenced Corrosion Failure of a Heat Exchanger Tube of a Fertilizer Plant

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Abstract

The investigation was performed to examine the probable cause of failure of a heat exchanger tube at a fertilizer plant. Detailed metallographic analysis, chemical analysis, and microbiological culture tests were carried out to ascertain the cause/causes of failure. A detailed scanning electron microscopic analysis was a necessary supplement to this investigation. The results obtained indicate that pitting and fouling in a heat exchanger tube occurred due to microbiological-influenced corrosion.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Research & Development, Buckman, 1256 N McLean Blvd., Memphis, TN, 38108, USA

    Pankaj Sharma

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  1. Pankaj Sharma
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Correspondence to Pankaj Sharma.

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Sharma, P. Microbiological-Influenced Corrosion Failure of a Heat Exchanger Tube of a Fertilizer Plant. J Fail. Anal. and Preven. 14, 314–317 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11668-014-9826-2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11668-014-9826-2

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