Question: Usage of 12Cr1MoV after spheroidization
Thread Content
Question: For a medium-pressure steam pipeline made of 12Cr1MoV material, which has been in use for 10 years; the metallographic analysis during maintenance indicated a spheroidization level of 4.5. The operating parameters are 4.1 MPa and 440°C. Does this condition require a complete replacement of the pipes? Can it still be used under supervision?
Of course it needs to be replaced; it’s already ball-shaped – why not replace it right away?
Based on the operating conditions you provided, for a steel like 12Cr1MoV, it’s not likely to be the case. The main drawback of spheroidizing pearlite is the decrease in the strength and hardness of the pipeline material. It is recommended that the person in question measure the hardness several times; by converting these hardness values into tensile strength, they can compare it with the minimum standard tensile strength for steel to see how much the difference is. Also, could you upload some photos of the metallography for us to see?