Stress analysis for the high-temperature gaseous corrosion of metal tubes

Stress analysis for the high-temperature gaseous corrosion of metal tubes is presented. The mechanical stresses arising from the difference in thermal expansion coefficients and volumes of a metal and its oxide can result in cracking of the oxide scale and in an increase of the oxidation rate. The model interprets the different behavior of oxide scale growths on outer versus inner tube surfaces. The oxidation behavior of tantalum tubes at temperatures of 825 °C and 930 °C is calculated based on this analysis. Results of the calculations are in good agreement with observed experimental data.