On Extending the Service Life of Pipelines of Ash and Slag Removal Systems at Thermal Power Plants

A problem of protecting pipelines from erosive wear remains highly relevant at thermal power plants (TPPs) both in hydraulic ash removal systems and in pneumatic ones. The intense movement of solid ash particles at high velocity results in rapid erosion of the inner walls of pipes, especially affecting the shaped sections. To ensure maximum durability, reliability, and environmental safety of ash handling systems, it is necessary to comprehensively implement both operational measures (optimization of velocities and concentrations) and design solutions. The article covers the analyses of the regulatory documents on erosive wear as well as on selecting the optimal performance and transportation modes. Criteria and recommendations for selecting protection technology for existing, reconstructed, and new TPPs are proposed. A comprehensive technology for protecting ash conveying pipelines from erosion is substantiated, including optimization of configuration of the shaped pipeline elements with flow stabilization sections at the bend inlet and outlet, combined with the application of the alumoceramic coating to the bend. The results of successful implementation of the comprehensive pipeline protection technology from erosion are presented by the example of Khabarovsk TPP-3. After improving the shape of pipe bends, their service life increases by 3-4 times compared to the use of steel bends of non-optimal shape. Application of pipes with alumoceramic coating for the most wear-prone straight sections and for manufacturing shaped pipeline sections reduces the probability of ash removal system shutdowns due to erosive wear by a factor of 11 or more compared to steel pipelines, which significantly reduces the operating costs of the TPP ash removal systems and improves their reliability indicators. An approximate assessment of capital costs is presented for two options: replacing a worn section with a standard steel elbow and installing a pilot section of optimal shape with flow stabilization sections and application of an alumoceramic coating to the bend. The article is intended for specialists in the design and operation of TPP ash and slag removal systems, as well as for organizations involved in hydraulic and pneumatic transportation of erosive materials.

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