Standard Practice for Acoustic Pulse Reflectometry Examination of Tube Bundles

Importancia y uso:

5.1 APR technology is used for detection, location and identification of internal diameter (ID) flaws-indications and blockages in tube bundles.

5.2 Reliable and accurate examination of tube bundles is of great importance in different industries. On-time detection of flaws reduces a risk of catastrophic failure and minimizes unplanned shutdowns of plant equipment. Fast examination capability is of great importance due to reduction of maintenance time.

5.3 APR examinations are performed for quality control of newly manufactured tube bundles as well as for in-service inspection.

5.4 Performing an APR examination requires access to an open end of each tube to be examined.

5.5 Flaws that can be readily detected and identified include but are not limited to through-wall holes, ID pitting, erosion, blockages, bulging due to creep and plastic deformation due to bending.

5.6 APR can be applied to tube bundles made of metal, graphite, plastic or other solid materials with straight and curved sections. The APR technology has been found effective on tubes with diameters between 12.7 mm [¹/₂ in.] to 101.6 mm [4 in.] and lengths up to 18 metres [60 feet].

5.7 Closed cracks on ID surface, without significant geometrical alternation on ID surface, may not be detected by APR.

5.8 APR technology can be used for flaw sizing when special signal and data analysis methods are developed and applied.

5.9 In addition to detection of flaws and blockages, APR technology can be applied for assessing tube ID surface cleanliness, providing valuable information for equipment maintenance and improving its performance.

5.10 Other nondestructive test methods may be used to verify and evaluate the significance of APR indications, their exact position, depth, dimension and orientation. These include remote visual inspection, eddy current and ultrasonic testing.

5.11 Procedures for using other NDT methods are beyond the scope of this practice.

5.12 Acceptable flaw size can be calculated using methods of fracture mechanics, numerical modeling, or both. These calculations are beyond the scope of this document.

Subcomité:

E07.10

Volúmen:

03.04

Número ICS:

27.060.30 (Boilers and heat exchangers)

Palabras clave:

acoustic pulse reflectometry; blockage; heat exchangers; through holes; tubes;