Application of metal magnetic memory test in failure analysis and safety evaluation of vessels

Abstract

Metal magnetic memory test (MMMT), which is a new subject in the field of nondestructive examination, can determine regions of stress concentration by testing the distribution of the magnetic field of metal structures so as to effectively diagnose premature defects. MMMT and other test methods are applied in the study to put a propylene purifier of a temperature-jump accident and a leaked ammonia vessel through safety evaluation. Results are as follows: The margin of safety declines after the purifier is overburnt; several stress concentrations are observed within the overburnt area and the level of stress concentration rises after one-month operation; and overpressure operation of the purifier must be strictly avoided and carefully monitored during later operation. Cracks are observed on the ammonia vessel after one year’s service. Extremely high residual stress is the primary cause of cracks. After four years in service, the residual stresses existing in the area of the base metal and weld zone are still greater than 0.5s_S, which results in numerous cracks due to stress corrosion. From the MMMT result of the ammonia vessel’s defects, it can be seen that the derivative of magnetic density (dHp/dx) is an important reference variable. Within the 31 leakage points, 67.7% of them whose dHp/dx values are more than 10, and 96.8% of them whose dHp/dx values are more than 8.

Key words： Metal magnetic memory test (MMMT); nondestructive testing (NDT); residual stress; propylene purifier; ammonia vessel

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