Structural integrity assessment of weldments at high temperature: A proposed new approach for R5

The R5 procedures provide a comprehensive methodology for the assessment of structures operating within the high temperature creep regime. This includes advice on the modifications required to the basic procedure to account for weldments in creep–fatigue crack initiation assessments. The current approach is based on the use of a Fatigue Strength Reduction Factor (FSRF) which has a value according to the particular class of welded joint. The FSRF affects the calculation of creep and fatigue damage. However, the current approach can be excessively conservative for as-welded weldments which are the main type of weldments in plant.