MATERIAL CHALLENGES FOR LONG TERM AND SAFE OPERATION OF COAL GASIFICATION SYSTEMS

The coal gasification provides the possibility of substitution of petroleum in producing chemicals and fuels. However, the failures, faults and even accidents have been associated with the coal gasification systems which greatly limited the maintenance interval. Based on the analysis of the types of failures in the current coal gasification installations, the paper proposed the major science and technology breakthroughs needed to ensure the long term and safe operation of the plants. Research progresses were summarized concerning flow induced damage and fatigue and fracture of the components. Life enhancement techniques on the basis of surface engineering were introduced.