MPT

A primary concern for end-users is the definition of the Minimum Pressurizing Temperature (MPT) of the
equipment. This temperature is the lowest temperature at which the vessel can be re-pressurized after
shutdown and insures no risk of brittle failure of the containment body. The MPT is defined by fracture
mechanics.

It is very important to establish minimum pressurization temperature, in order to ensure the safety of
the reactors during start up and reactor cool down. It is advisable to use a lower temperature for full
pressure, which is more economic. A reasonable threshold value of reactors skin temperature is
recommended by the vendor for pressurization, which is 930 Celsius at 10.95 kg/cm2 system pressure.
The establishment of minimum pressurization temperature accommodated the potential of temper
embrittlement and hydrogen embrittlement.

What happens when MPT is not established?

During start up or shut down, there is if MPT procedure is not followed this will result in temperature
embrittlement, Brittle fracture and hydrogen assisted embrittlement will start causing failure of the
material.

Temperature Embrittlement

Temperature embrittlement is the reduction in toughness due to a metallurgical change that can occur
in some low alloy steels as a result of long term exposure in the temperature range of about 343 C to
577 C. This change causes an upward shift in in the ductile-to-brittle transition temperature. Although
the loss of toughness is not evident at operating temperature, equipment that is temper embrittled may
be susceptible to brittle fracture during start-up and shutdown.

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