Low Temperature Sensitization as Encountered with Applications of Stainless Steel Tube and New Expertise for Controlling of Sensitization Resistance thereof(Part I)

Summarized and analyzed are the terms concerning corrosion resistance test as specified under the stainless steel tube/pipe standards of USA，Europe，Japan and China，and the differences. Elaborated are the testing methods for，formation mechanisms of，and factors affecting intergranular corrosion of the stainless steel tube/pipe. Discussed are the low temperature sensitization of the nuclear power plant-serving stainless steel tube which is caused due to IGSCC developed after a rather long period of operation under high temperature condition，and the related sensitization resistance. It is pointed out that the intergranular corrosion performance of the stainless steel can be definitely controlled during the manufacturing process. Provided that the chemical composition，the processing procedure or the thermal history of the stainless steel are up to relevant requirements，its intergranular corrosion performance can be explicitly evaluated.