[en] In experiments designed to study the erosion-corrosion behaviour of AGR boiler inlet ferrules using the CERL high velocity circulating isothermal water rig, oxide deposition was frequently found within the flow control orifices. The present investigation was carried out as a preliminary to a programme of experiments addressed specifically to this problem. Analysis shows the deposits to be predominantly magnetite (or possible maghemite) with traces of α-haematite. Calculations indicate that the maximum rate of magnetite deposition is mass transfer limited, although in some experiments no deposition occurred in cases where mass transfer would have allowed substantial deposition. Thus the occurrence of deposition is thought to depend on the rig potential as this varies with experimental conditions. In these experiments the surface potential is not found to be governed by the hydrogen level. Metallographic cross-sections through the ferrule control bores show the deposits to be found in regions of separated flow, and the flow markings in the deposits show that the flow is turbulent in these zones. The exact morphology is thought to be influenced by machining marks within the control bore. (author)