Abstract
To address current energy and environmental demands, the development and implementation of more efficient power plants is crucial. This efficiency improvement is primarily achieved by increasing steam temperatures and pressures, necessitating the introduction of new materials capable of withstanding these extreme conditions. Nickel-based alloys emerge as prime candidates for high-temperature and high-pressure applications, offering significant creep strength and the ability to operate at metal temperatures above 750°C. This research focuses specifically on steam header and pipework systems, which are critical components carrying steam from boilers to turbines under severe operating conditions. The study emphasizes the importance of selecting suitable materials for these components and developing methodologies to predict their safe operating lifetimes, thereby ensuring the reliable and efficient operation of next-generation power plants.
