Challenges with NDE and Weld Repair of Creep Strength Enhanced Ferritic Steels

Compared to traditional power plant materials, creep strength enhanced ferritic steels require new approaches to nondestructive examination and weld repair. The metallurgical complexity of these steels prompted EPRI to conduct research to define and/or improve the detection limits of ultrasonic testing techniques, explore novel electromagnetic techniques, evaluate the sensitivity and applicability of acoustic emission testing, and conduct studies on improved weld repair procedures.