Leakage in the transformation gas preheater
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Last August, a leak was detected in the gas preheater used by our company; this preheater had been in use for 4 years. After it was removed and inspected, it was found that the issue stemmed mainly from broken tubes, with the material being 304 stainless steel. But after replacing it with a new one, it worked for 40 days before leaking again. Another one was made, and it leaked again. The company’s management suspects a corrosion issue, but stainless steel is resistant to corrosion and high temperatures – how could gas corrosion be that severe? Please share your opinions.
304 is susceptible to hydrogen embrittlement. Check whether the operating temperature and pressure could lead to hydrogen embrittlement.
The main issue is corrosion. What do you think of adding a separator in front of the exchanger? I believe that would help