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Boiler Plant Deaerator Inspections
1. VHA Directive 2003-050, BOILER PLANT OPERATIONS, requires that the
deaerator pressure vessels be periodically inspected internally by a
Qualified Professional Inspector. Periodic external inspections are
also required. This communication is to serve as a reminder of this
inspection requirement.
2. The purpose of these inspections is to determine if there are
cracks in the pressure vessel welds. Cracks have been found in at
least three VA deaerators. Deaerator pressure vessels have been
known to fail with catastrophic results because hot water, steam
and pressure are involved.
3. The internal inspection of the pressure vessel will require the
use of a non-destructive test method, such as wet fluorescent magnetic
particle (WFMT), to determine if there are cracks in the welds. The
test methods and procedures to be utilized are those which have been
recommended by the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors.
4. Since 1988, the VA Master Specification for deaerators, Section
15625, has included pressure vessel construction requirements which
are predicted to reduce the chances of weld cracking.
5. For additional information, contact the Consulting Support
Service (183A), Jim Shoemaker @ 202-565-5176.
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