Predictive modelling of long term creep performance of critical plant components

In their common form, continuum damage models describe only the secondary and tertiary stages of creep. Various methods have been used to incorporate primary creep; these are noted in this paper and their implications for life and ductility prediction discussed. For component remanent life prediction, a simple method, involving a single additional materials parameter, is recommended. The application of the method is illustrated and the implications for materials data collection and analysis are considered. The approach is demonstrated on low alloy steels