ASM Failure Analysis Case Histories: Power Generating Equipment
Failure of Copper Alloy C27000 Innercooler Tubes for Air Compressors Because of Dezincification
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Published:2019
Abstract
After about 17 years in service, copper alloy C27000 (yellow brass, 65% Cu) innercooler tubes in an air compressor began leaking cooling water, causing failure and requiring replacement. The tubes were 19 mm in diam and had a wall thickness of 1.3 mm (0.050 in.). The cooling water that flowed through the tubes was generally sanitary (chlorinated) well water; however, treated recirculating water was sometimes used. Analysis (visual inspection, 9x and 75x unetched micrographs, and spectrochemical analysis) showed a thick uniform layer of porous, brittle copper on the inner surface of the tube, extending to a depth of about...
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Member Sign InFailure of Copper Alloy C27000 Innercooler Tubes for Air Compressors Because of Dezincification, ASM Failure Analysis Case Histories: Power Generating Equipment, ASM International, 2019, https://doi.org/10.31399/asm.fach.power.c0046469
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