Evaluation Of Eddy Current Condenser Tube Inspection Practice In Khartoum North Power Station

Abstract

The main objectives of the study was to measure the success achieved by the way the Eddy Current Inspection Method was applied to the steam turbine condenser tubes of Khartoum North Power Station (KNPS), and to analyze the inspection result to recommend the optimum way of implementation. Adoption of this method was necessitated by the frequent condenser tube failure incidents that resulted in high generation losses and unplanned maintenance hours. Consequently, KNPS outage statistics were analyzed to measure the improvement achieved by the adopted approach. Next, an alternative approach was applied. Results of Unit 2 and Unit 1 condenser eddy current tube inspection were re-analyzed find the failure pattern which, in turn, was compared to find the expected failure pattern. Expected failure mechanisms was deduced by studying the factors that affect the life span of condenser tubes related to condenser design, maintenance practices and chemical treatment of water. Finally, the two approaches were compared and optimum practice recommended