This work describes a method of early detection of feedwater heater leaks. The method uses existing pressure, temperature, and flow measurements. The four leak indicators found were feedwater flow rate, drain temperature, drain cooler approach, and extraction line pressure drop. Deviations from normal operation were plotted for each of these indicators. Statistical process control was applied to these deviations. The progressive enlargement of leaks could be seen over a 10 hour period. The four indicators were shown to be good evidence of a tube leak. This method is an alternative to existing acoustic leak detection methods.

Issue Section:
Power: Feedwater Systems
Topics:
Feedwater, Leakage, Temperature, Acoustics, Flow (Dynamics), Flow measurement, Pressure, Pressure drop, Statistical process control
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