Structure and properties of the centrifugally cast high-alloyed (25Cr35NiNbTi) steel after long-time operation in steam reforming

Abstract

The paper presents the influence of performance conditions of high-alloyed nickel-chromium cast steel intended for use in steam reforming plants on the morphology and number of phases present in centrifugally cast tubes. Structure identification was done by the methods of light and scanning microscopy. It was found that the main components of the tested cast steel microstructures are carbides of, among others, chromium, iron, and niobium. The structure has also been reported to contain the sigma phase. Additionally, at three test temperatures (20, 820 and 945°C), the mechanical properties of the cast steel were determined after years of operation under industrial conditions. The tested material was characterised by low, compared with standard requirements, mechanical properties. A relationship between the content of phases (primary and secondary carbides), measured by the methods of quantitative metallography, and the yield strength of the tested material was determined. The yield strength determined at room temperature, and at 820°C and 945°C assumed higher values in samples characterised by a relatively large volume content of phases.