95-04: Fractures in Cooling Water System Components

Fractures in cooling water system components can lead to costly failures. Fracture of fan and motor shafts, fasteners, piping and tubing, heat exchangers, pump components, valves, and water-cooled process equipment due to fatigue, corrosion fatigue, stress corrosion cracking, embrittlement, and overload have been observed. The fracture can be prompted by improper operation, poor design, and manufacturing errors. Examples of fracture failures of a wide variety of components are presented. Appropriate prevention and inspection techniques are also discussed.