A new order, worth over GBP 1 million, for Esshete 1250 (EN 1.4892) steel grade boiler tubes for use at Drax Power Station (UK), has been received by Sandvik Materials Technology in the UK. Required as replacement superheater tubing to cover outage needs during 2007, the order covers several different tube sizes between 38 and 67mm od. The use of material grade Esshete 1250 (EN 1.4892) is further confirmation of its suitability for demanding conditions in superheater and reheater units in coal-fired power generation and its specification as a standard design material in UK power stations. Esshete 1250 (EN 1.4892) is an austenitic CrNiMn steel with high strength relative to other austenitic alloys used in power generation. The grade was designed with the following properties: high strength at elevated temperatures up to 675C combined with high ductility; a microstructure and mechanical properties, which remain stable over a long period; easily fabricated and welded using standard procedures; and good oxidation resistance. In the UK, Esshete 1250 (EN 1.4892) has been used extensively in both Drax and Rugeley B power stations.
