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DCPD Crack Length Measurement for SCC

Direct Current Potential Drop Crack Length Measurement for Stress Corrosion Cracking

At Lucideon, we offer cutting-edge solutions for accurately measuring crack length in stress corrosion cracking (SCC) through the direct current potential drop (DCPD) method. SCC poses a serious risk to critical infrastructure, especially in industries where high-temperature aqueous environments are prevalent, such as nuclear power plants and chemical processing facilities. Traditional crack measurement methods, like extensometry, have limitations in such environments due to physical contact with the crack, which can compromise accuracy and lead to equipment failure. The DCPD method, however, offers a non-contact, precise, and reliable alternative, enabling real-time monitoring of crack growth in even the most extreme conditions.

Stress Corrosion Cracking Testing

 

The challenge of stress corrosion cracking

Stress corrosion cracking is a significant concern for industries where materials are exposed to both mechanical stress and corrosive environments, such as nuclear reactors, chemical plants, and power generation systems. The ability to accurately measure crack length and monitor its progression is critical for preventing catastrophic failures, ensuring the safety of operations, and extending component lifespan. Traditional methods, like Crack Mouth Opening Displacement (CMOD) gauges, require physical contact with the crack, which can be problematic in high-temperature, high-pressure environments. These methods are also intrusive, making them unsuitable for many real-world applications.

Lucideon's DCPD method for crack length measurement

Lucideon's direct current potential drop (DCPD) crack length measurement method provides an advanced solution for accurately monitoring crack growth in stress corrosion cracking. Key benefits of the DCPD method include:

  • Non-contact measurement: unlike traditional extensometry, DCPD does not require physical contact with the crack, making it ideal for harsh environments, including high-temperature and high-pressure systems.
  • High precision and resolution: DCPD offers extremely high-resolution monitoring, detecting crack growth at the atomic scale, enabling early detection of potential failures.
  • Continuous and automated monitoring: the DCPD method allows for continuous, real-time crack monitoring without manual intervention, improving data accuracy and reducing downtime.
  • Optimised for extreme conditions: this technique is specially designed for environments such as nuclear power plants, where extreme temperatures and pressures are present, and where traditional methods would likely fail.

 

Advanced SCC testing facility

Lucideon operates the world's largest and most advanced stress corrosion cracking laboratory. Our lab is equipped with high-temperature autoclaves, precise water chemistry control systems, and state-of-the-art data acquisition technologies. This unique facility enables us to replicate real-world conditions, ensuring that the data gathered from our tests is applicable and accurate for use in field applications.

Industries and applications

Lucideon's DCPD crack length measurement is ideal for a variety of industries and applications, including:

  • Nuclear power industry: monitoring SCC in materials such as stainless steel and nickel-based alloys used in primary water systems, including Pressurised Water Reactors (PWRs) and Boiling Water Reactors (BWRs).
  • Aerospace: detecting crack growth in high-temperature environments like turbine engines, where materials are exposed to corrosive conditions.
  • Energy sector: evaluating pipeline materials and other critical infrastructure exposed to harsh environmental conditions.

Why choose Lucideon?

With extensive experience and advanced technologies, Lucideon offers unparalleled expertise in stress corrosion cracking and crack length measurement. Our DCPD method is a reliable, high-precision solution designed to operate in the most demanding conditions, ensuring that your components are monitored with the utmost accuracy and reliability. Whether you're in the nuclear, aerospace, or energy sector, our tailored solutions help you mitigate the risks of SCC and enhance the longevity of your assets.

Contact us today to learn how our DCPD crack length measurement services can benefit your operations.