Toughness of Cr-Mo-V Steels for Steam Turbine Rotors

Abstract

Cr-Mo-V steels are used extensively as the rotor material in the High Pressure and Intermediate Pressure Sections of modern steam turbines. The toughness of these rotors has a major influence on the reliability and efficiency of the turbine and the overall economy of operation and maintenance of the plant. The metallurgical factors affecting the toughness of the rotors and the methods to improve the toughness are now understood better than ever before. This paper will present a broad overview of the materials and design aspects of the toughness of Cr-Mo-V rotors with emphasis on the salient results of recent research programs aimed at improving their toughness.