In order to study the corrosion of zirconium under heat-transfer conditions, a corrosion test loop has been set up at Teledyne Wah Chang Albany. The major components of this test loop are a 37.85-L (10-gal) tank, a zirconium centrifugal pump, a heat-transfer heater, a vertical single-tube heat exchanger, and monitors for temperature, pressure, and flow speed at critical areas. Specimens were 0.9-m (3-ft) long tubes and wires, which were and were not subjected to a heat flux, respectively.

Tests of zirconium versus 50% sulfuric acid were conducted. Test results indicate that the effect of heat flux on zirconium in 50% sulfuric acid at about 160°C (330°F) is negligible. However, acid concentration may change in the process because of vaporization, imperfect sealing, condensation, and so forth. When the acid becomes too strong, zirconium will be susceptible to localized corrosion.