| A coal processing plant experienced a major fire. The review of various
exhibits cast suspicion on the design and manufacture of one piping section. Detailed finite
element modeling analyzed this section subject to the thermal expansion and internal pressure
of plant operation. Stress levels were compared to ASME standards. Low-cycle fatigue and
overload analyses of the stressed piping sections were performed. Opinions expressed included
a determination of the failure mechanism and a statement of the cause of failure. |
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