Boiler Condition Assessments and Availability Improvement

Boiler tube failures (BTF) have been the number one availability problem for utilities with fossil power plants.  Failures can result from original design flaws, fabrication or installation practices, operation, maintenance, or cycle chemistry.  However, much of the damage can be avoided or minimized.  FGS emphasizes the process of determining the root causes and mechanisms behind BTF, and subsequently, implementation of corrective actions to prevent boiler tube failure recurrences.  Anticipatory actions can also detect damage prior to actual boiler tube failure.

FGS associates have conducted over 30 boiler condition assessment projects in the past few years.  FGS can provide boiler pressure component condition assessment planning, evaluation, analysis, and recommendations for availability/reliability improvement.  We also provide systematic root cause analysis and operation/maintenance/design recommendations to prevent problems from recurring.  See Research and Publications for examples of our approach and successes. 

We highly recommend a process of training your maintenance personnel during any assessment so that this practice becomes a part of your overall maintenance program.