While some plants are diligent about regular inspections, others are not. 

Regular deaerator inspection and maintenance is critical because of the classic phrase, “a stitch in time”. 

Many failures or unplanned shutdowns can be avoided with planned inspections.

• Cracks in welds – minor cracks can be discovered and repaired before they become a major problem.
• Erosion or Flow Accelerated Corrosion (FAC) – usually a result of damaged internals or faulty design.  These damage mechanisms can be diagnosed and resolved during planned shutdowns, thus preventing further damage.
• Oxygen pitting – the result of poor deaeration.  This is often caused by damaged internal components which can be repaired during planned shutdowns, thus preventing further damage.