United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority

Ian Hulse

Edward Duncombe

Peter F Roach

Prior to effecting a repair of a leaking heat exchanger tube by an internal repair tube brazed to the leaking tube, strain in the leaking tube is measured while heating it to brazing temperature. A braze is only effected if the strain is below a predetermined level. Apparatus for carrying out the strain measurement typically of probe form having a strain gauge head (21) at the nose of the probe and a heater element (23). Preferably, the length of the probe is such that the head (21) reaches to just above a grid support plate (12). Where strain is found to be above said predetermined level and the leaking tube is of U-shape the strain may be relieved by heating both legs of the tube. Alternatively, strain may be relieved by thinning and bulging the leaking tube (FIGS. 5A-C) at a region close enough to the braze for the thinned zone to experience heat from the braze to allow it to yield under the strain.

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Warrington, United Kingdom

Ian Hulse