Influence of corrosion processes on the head loss across ECCS sump strainers

Abstract

Abstract Corrosion investigations were carried out using hot-dip galvanized steel samples in order to identify the corrosion mechanisms as well as the nature of corrosion products formed. Corrosion of grating treads may exacerbate ECCS strainer clogging problems during LOCA events in LWR. For the related experiments, tailored bench-scale facilities have been constructed. The results of batch experiments as well as of long-time corrosion investigations in the Korr VA test facility suggest that there is a multi-stage corrosion process. The first stage comprises the dissolution of the Zn layer in the coolant forming Zn2+ ions, which can generate crystalline zinc borate in boric acid solutions, if the ion concentration exceeds the saturation concentration. The base material (steel) is cathodically protected as long as the zinc layer is present. During the second stage, the base material dissolves forming insoluble corrosion particles, which can subsequently lead to acceleration of the strainer clogging. The main influences on corrosion were identified as impact of the water onto the corroding surface, water chemistry and Zn surface/coolant volume ratio.