Time-dependent leak behavior of flawed Alloy 600 tube specimens at constant pressure

Leak rate testing has been performed using Alloy 600 tube specimens with throughwall flaws. Some specimens have shown time-dependent leak behavior at constant pressure conditions. Fractographic characterization was performed to identify the time-dependent crack growth mechanism. The fracture surface of the specimens showed the typical features of ductile fracture, as well as the distinct crystallographic facets, typical of fatigue crack growth at low ΔK level. Structural vibration appears to have been caused by the oscillation of pressure, induced by a high-pressure pump used in a test facility, and by the water jet/tube structure interaction. Analyses of the leak behaviors and crack growth indicated that both the high-pressure pump and the water jet could significantly contribute to fatigue crack growth. To determine whether the fatigue crack growth during the leak testing can occur solely by the water jet effect, leak rate tests at constant pressure without the high-pressure pump need to be performed.

► Leak rate of flawed Alloy 600 tubing increased at constant pressure condition.
► Fractography revealed two cases: ductile tearing and crystallographic facets.
► Crystallographic facets are typical features of fatigue crack growth at low ΔK.
► Fatigue source could be water jet-induced vibration and/or high-pressure pump pulsation.