Root Cause Analysis for the Failure of an Air Compressor Impeller

Chandan, A K and Sahoo, Biraj K and Bansal, G K and Ghosh, M (2025) Root Cause Analysis for the Failure of an Air Compressor Impeller. Transactions of the Indian Institute of Metals, 78(1) .

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Abstract

This study examines the reason of failure of a three-stage air compressor, which failed during service. The as-cast component consisted of 15-5 martensitic stainless steel. The alloy satisfied ASTM standards for alloy chemistry, mechanical properties, and phase constituents in microstructure. During structural investigation, distinctive chemical heterogeneities in the form of embedded carbonaceous flakes were found near surface/sub-surface of the as-cast component. The probable origin for the formation of such carbon-rich phases was inappropriate casting process, which perhaps involved improper mould preparation. These flaky carbon-rich locations acted as stress concentrators leading to crack initiation. The crack propagated under cyclic loading during high-speed rotation of the impeller, and ultimately leading to premature failure of the component.

Item Type:Article
Official URL/DOI:https://10.1007/s12666-024-03534-2
Uncontrolled Keywords:Impeller, air compressor, fatigue, casting defect, carbonaceous particles
Divisions:Material Science and Technology
ID Code:9689
Deposited By:INVALID USER
Deposited On:13 Jan 2025 11:20
Last Modified:13 Jan 2025 11:20
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