Premature Failure Analysis of Servovalve Components for a Thermal Power Plant

摘要

The premature failure of a servovalve used for six months in a thermal power plant has been analyzed. The servovalve was made of stainless steel, containing 16Cr-0.44Mo, along with other elements. An overload of oil-supply pumping and an abnormal increase in the oil flux were observed during operation. A study revealed that erosion and corrosion could be the main causes of the failure. The visual examination of the servovalve did not show any appreciable damage. However, corrosion and erosion of the servovalve were observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Upon examination of the servovalve, the corrosion was found to have occurred throughout the bushing and spool; however, erosion occurred at only the edge-side. In addition, the condition of the electrohydraulic control system (EHC) oil was investigated with respect to its satisfaction of the management standard.