Oxidation Damage Analysis of Ferritic Alloy Steel Heater Tubes in Catalytic Reforming Unit
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Date
2024-04-30
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International Journal of Heat and Technology.Vol. 42, No. 2, pp. 390-398
Abstract
Reformer heater tubes operate in a complex environment involving high temperatures,
pressure, and corrosive atmospheres. Depending on the operating conditions, several
mechanisms can occur, such as creep, oxidation, high-temperature hydrogen attack, and
carburization. This paper aims to evaluate the degradation degree of catalytic reformer
heater tubes made of ferritic alloy-steel A 335 grade P22 based on a combination of
inspection techniques, including visual inspection, microstructure observation,
metallographic analysis, and mechanical properties testing. The results show severe
oxidation and scaling occurring on the outer surface of the heater tube due to operating the
tubes above recommended levels. Several recommendations are suggested to reduce the
risk of thermal oxidation and prevent similar damages from reoccurring in the future.