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Copper-Nickels in Power Generation

CONTENTS

Fossil and Nuclear Power Plants

The generation of electricity in both nuclear and fossil fired power plants involves important heat transfer processes; steam generators, heat exchangers, coolers, condensers, tanks, pipework, valves and fittings.

Steam produced in the steam generator of a nuclear power plant or in the steam boiler when fossil fuel fired loses part of its heat energy in the turbine by conversion into electricity. In the condenser, the balance is transferred to the coolant, usually fresh water from lakes and rivers, sea water or estuarine water, or natural draft in power stations using wet cooling towers.

For main steam turbine condensers seamless Cu-Ni tubes have been used. 90-10 Cu-Ni is often the first choice with the 70-30 alloy being used for the steam inlet zone. To avoid erosion corrosion due to abrasive particles 70-30 is better than 90-10 with 66-30-2-2 being the best choice where for example sand is carried in the cooling water.

For oil cooler and the auxiliary cooling systems the same alloys will be considered as for the main steam condensers. For high pressure pre-heaters (feed water heaters), 70-30 Cu-Ni or nickel coppers (alloy 400) are preferred. They are normally used in the cold worked and stress relieved condition.

There are many different piping systems within power generating plants and Cu-Ni pipes and components can be used under suitable conditions.

Useful References/Links

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Offshore Renewable Energy

Copper-nickels offer, by way of their marine corrosion and biofouling properties, benefits for the fast developing offshore wind, tidal and wave renewable energy sectors.

For an overview of copper-nickels and other copper alloys for offshore wind, tidal and wave energy application, view the Marine Renewables Webcast from CDA UK.

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