Non-Destructive Diagnostic Technique for Detection of Deteriorated Porcelain Shell Due to Alkali-Silica Reaction

Abstract

Recently we experienced gas leak trouble of a hollow porcelain shell, which had been working in service for more than a few decades. From our investigation, it was found that an alkali-silica reaction might occur in the porcelain body over time depending on the sealing structure, the number of times the porcelain was fired, and the amount of alkali in the cement. This paper describes the mechanism of porosity change in porcelain body, the factors of such deterioration speed, FEM stress analysis results, and an Ultrasonic Test (UT) for the integrity of porcelain. In addition, the UT inspection results are shown.