THE FABRICATION OF A PROCESS HEAT EXCHANGER FOR A SO3 DECOMPOSER USING SURFACE-MODIFIED HASTELLOY X MATERIALS

This study investigates the surface modification of a Hastelloy X plate and diffusion bonding in the assembly of surface modified plates. These types of plates are involved in the key processes in the fabrication of a process heat exchanger (PHE) for a $SO_3$ decomposer. Strong adhesion of a SiC film deposited onto Hastelloy X can be achieved by a thin SiC film deposition and a subsequent N ion beam bombardment followed by an additional deposition of a thicker film that prevents the Hastelloy X surface from becoming exposed to a corrosive environment through the pores. This process not only produces higher corrosion resistance as proved by electrolytic etching but also exhibits higher endurance against thermal stress above 9$900^{\circ}C$. A process for a good bonding between Hastelloy X sheets, which is essential for a good heat exchanger, was developed by diffusion bonding. The diffusion bonding was done by mechanically clamping the sheets under a heat treatment at $900^{\circ}C$. When the clamping jig consisted of materials with a thermal expansion coefficient that was equal to or less than that of the Hastelloy X, sound bonding was achieved.