Impressive creep strength is the reason for using Grade 91 and other creep strength-enhanced ferritic (CSEF) steels, yet CSEF processing deficiencies have been implicated in numerous failures, forced outages, construction extensions, and premature component replacements. The trend may well continue: recent plant inspections have detected an alarming number of improperly processed welds and components. Structural Integrity Associates, Inc. (SI), in partnership with EPRI®, now offers a comprehensive CSEF asset management program to optimize service life and minimize any future problems. The program addresses all aspects of CSEF design, procurement, fabrication, installation, and operation. Specific SI services include field hardness mapping to identify hardness-deficient zones; follow-up linear phased-array ultrasonic examinations to locate cracks; development or review of purchasing/processing specifications, welding programs, and quality control programs; and vendor evaluation and on-site monitoring.

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