Fabien obtained a Master’s degree in Materials Science and Engineering from the University of Limoges, France, in 2006. He joined The University of Manchester to undertake a PhD funded by EDF investigating stress corrosion cracking of nickel base alloys in nuclear reactor environment. In his spare time, Fabien is training to complete his first Olympic distance triathlon.

Stress Corrosion Cracking in Nuclear Power Plants

Most nickel-base alloys in nuclear power plants are subjected to stress corrosion cracking (SCC). Life duration of components is assessed using a semi-empirical model which does not take into account pre-straining or cold work. The development of a more physical model requires an accurate description of the effects of the pre-straining and of the various metallurgical parameters, separately from the mechanical parameters.

This study investigates the effect of the strain path on the SCC behaviour of two Ni-base alloys. Specimens with different strain paths have been produced from two plant components. Specimens have been tested in a high temperature (360ºC), high pressure primary water reactor environment under constant load for 5,000 hours or until failure.

This presentation addresses the specimen damage after SCC testing and the influence of the manufacturing process on the SCC behaviour. The specimen damage relative to the strain path will be presented.