Reformer Tube Life Assessment (RLA)

Steam reformer tubes are manufactured from centrifugally-cast materials and are designed to operate under extremely high temperature and pressure conditions. Due to these harsh environments, specific damage mechanisms such as creep, external oxidation, and internal corrosion are commonly expected.

Although furnaces are designed for a minimum expected life, actual service conditions often lead to significant variation in tube performance and lifespan.

Steam reformer furnaces are critical units in the production of Ammonia, Methanol, Syngas, Acetic Acid, and refined hydrocarbons. These systems operate at the limits of material capability, where fatigue, thermal stress, creep, and residual stresses contribute to long-term degradation.

Reformer tubes, pigtails, and collection headers operate in the creep regime, making them highly susceptible to microstructural damage. Any operational upset or extreme condition can significantly reduce their remaining service life.

Petromaster RLA Technology

Petromaster provides a patented inspection system that combines multiple Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) techniques to deliver a complete evaluation of tube condition. When integrated with advanced remaining life assessment software, it can accurately predict the remaining life of each individual tube and simulate the effect of future operating conditions on material aging.

Early detection of expansion, micro-cracks, and material degradation allows operators to optimize furnace performance, balance operations, and plan tube replacement efficiently, avoiding unplanned shutdowns.

Comprehensive Services Include

Inspection Techniques

Damage Classification & Remaining Life Prediction

Using advanced condition assessment software, each tube is graded based on its structural condition and damage level. This enables accurate life prediction and maintenance planning.