Erosion-corrosion resistance of copper alloy C72200 in sea water containing suspended sand

• Published in: Desalination Vol. 38; no. 1-3; pp. 223 - 231
• Main Authors: Polan, N.W., Heine, M.A., Popplewell, J.M., Gaffoglio, C.J.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V 01.01.1981
• Subjects: alloys; copper; corrosion; desalination plants; erosion; seawater; thermodynamics; water treatment
• ISSN: 0011-9164; 1873-4464
• DOI: 10.1016/S0011-9164(00)86069-5

Copper base alloys have been used frequently in salt water service in applications where thermal conductivity, fouling resistance and good corrosion performance are required. However, under certain conditions, such as turbulent flow or localized high velocities due to partial tube blockage, a form of accelerated attack known as erosion-corrosion can occur. Many copper base alloys, particularly the cupro-nickels, are resistant to this form of attack under normal conditions. In particular, certain alloys such as C72200 have been developed specifically to resist erosion-corrosion. However, another form of erosion-corrosion is sometimes observed in locations where sand becomes entrained with the sea water, for example, in certain Middle Eastern desalting plants and European power generating plants. Previous studies have indicated that the erosion-corrosion resistant C72200 approaches the sand erosion resistant C71640. In addition, temper (and consequent hardness) has proven to be a factor. It appears likely, therefore, that at harder tempers, C72200 may equal or exceed the sand erosion resistance of C71640. Coupled with the excellent erosion-corrosion of the alloy and lower cost due to a much lower nickel content, this new alloy may be an attractive candidate for desalting and heat exchanger use where sand entrainment is a problem.