| Abstract Scope |
As power plants age, innovative materials, processes, and repair techniques are needed to keep them operating well past their design life – often extending plant life from 40 to 80 years. Welding Engineers have exhibited considerable influence on cost effective technologies for uprate, upgrade and repair of critical power plant components and systems. Specifically, Welding Engineers have supported industry relevant research at universities, developed code and industry standards, and provided plans for field deployment of new and innovative welding and materials technologies to support the continued safe and efficient operation of power plants. This presentation provides an overview of key welding and joining advancements that have been successfully deployed to sustain and upgrade existing power plants over the past two decades. |