MATERIAL SELECTION
1.0 INTRODUCTION
This standard presents an overview of corrosion mechanisms, material degradation phenomena and material
guidelines as generally encountered in oil and gas producing facilities, refineries and (petro) chemical plants.
It is not intended to be complete, or give all applicable requirements, and shall be used with care.
For every new job and newly prepared materials selection report, the project specifics shall be carefully
studied, before parts from this standard are incorporated.
The purpose of this document is to have a quick start, prevent repeating work and, most important, to get a
consistent approach through all projects.
2.0 ABBREVIATIONS
The following abbreviations will be used:
ASCC Alkaline stress corrosion cracking
ASME American Society of Mechanical Engineers
ASTM American Society for Testing and Materials
CA Corrosion Allowance
CE Carbon equivalent
CI Cast Iron
CRA Corrosion Resistant Alloy
CS Carbon Steel / Cast Steel
CUI Corrosion under Insulation
DEA Di-ethanol amine
DIPA Di-isopropyl amine
EN EuroNorm
EPDM Ethylene-propylene-diene monomer rubber
FEPM Fluorocarbon ethylene propylene monomer elastomer
FFKM Perfluoroelastomer (Tetrafluoroethylene)
FKM Fluoroelastomer
GMAW Gas Metal Arc Welding
GTAW Gas Tungsten Arc Welding
HAZ Heat Affected Zone
HIC Hydrogen Induced Cracking
HTHA High Temperature Hydrogen Attack
Copper alloys.
Aluminum alloys.
Titanium alloys.
Plastics.
Cladded steel.
In addition to economic reasons, the selection of a material is determined by its properties, which are:
Mechanical properties, as hardness, yield strength, tensile strength, impact strength, creep and
fatigue properties.
Chemical or corrosion properties, as resistance to general corrosion, pitting, crevice corrosion, stress
corrosion, erosion corrosion, and corrosion fatigue.
Fabrication properties, as weldability, necessity of heat treating and necessity of non-destructive
testing.
Physical properties, as melting point, density, thermal expansion, electrical resistance, specific heat
and heat transfer coefficient.
Materials are normally selected according to ASTM or EN standards.
Austenitic stainless steels may be subject to chloride stress corrosion cracking above 65C.
In this case, solid SS should be prevented, and instead a SS internal clad or weld overlaid
construction shall be considered.
For welded equipment and piping, typically the low carbon L grades, or the chemically
stabilized grades (e.g. SS 321, 347), are specified, unless the upper design temperature
restricts the use of L grade materials.
For high temperature applications, above 450C, it may be required to apply a high carbon
H grade for sufficient strength properties.
3.3.4 Precipitation-Hardening
These alloys generally contain Cr and less than 8% Ni, with other elements in small
amounts. As the name implies, they are hardenable by heat treatment. PH stainless steel
develop very high strength through a low-temperature heat treatment. The aging treatment
produces hard, intermetallic precipitates and simultaneously tempers the martensite. The
austenitic alloys must be thermally treated to transform austenite to martensite before
precipitation hardening can be accomplished. Typical applications include shafts, high-
pressure pumps, fasteners and springs.
254SMO UNS S31254 1.4547 Polarit 778 20%Cr-18%Ni- For seawater service
6%Mo-Cu
6Mo UNS N08367 Al-6XN 20%Cr-24%Ni- For seawater service
6%Mo
25-6Mo UNS N08926 1.4529 1925hMo, 20%Cr-25%Ni- For seawater service,
UNS N08925 Incoloy 25-6Mo 6%Mo-1%Cu caustic and acids
NICKEL ALLOYS
Alloy 20 UNS N08020 2.4660 Carpenter 20 32%Ni-20%Cr- For sulfuric acid, etc.
Nicrofer 3620 2.5%Mo-
3.5%Cu
Alloy 28 UNS N08028 1.4563 Sanicro 28 30%Ni-27%Cr-
Nicrofer 3127LC 3.5%Mo-Cu
Alloy 825 UNS N08825 2.4858 Incoloy 825, 38%Ni-21%Cr- Resistant to acids,
NiCr21Mo 3%Mo pitting
Sanicro 41
Alloy G-3 UNS N06985 2.4619 Hastelloy G-3 45%Ni-21%Cr- For phosphoric and
19%Fe-7%Mo sulfuric acid service
Alloy C-276 UNS N10276 2.4819 Hastelloy C-276 57%Ni-15%Cr- Resistant to strong
15%Mo-5%Fe acids, oxidizers, and
ClSCC
Alloy C-22 UNS N06022 2.4602 Hastelloy C-22 57%Ni-21%Cr- Resistant to strong
13%Mo- acids, oxidizers, and
2.5%Fe ClSCC
Alloy B-2 UNS N10665 Hastelloy B-2 68%Ni-32%Mo Resistant to reducing
acids
Alloy 400 UNS N04400 2.4360 Monel 400 65%Ni- For resistance to HCl,
30%Cu-2%Fe salts and seawater
COPPER ALLOYS
CuNi 70/30 UNS C71500 2.0882 Cunifer 30 69%Cu- Heat exchanger tubes,
CuNi30Mn1Fe 30%Ni-1%Fe Seawater pipe
CuNi 90/10 UNS C70600 2.0872 Cunifer 10 89%Cu- Heat exchanger tubes,
CuNi10Fe 10%Ni-1%Fe Seawater pipe
Adm. Brass UNS C44300 71%Cu- Heat exchanger tubes
28%Zn-1%Sn
Alum-Brass UNS C68700 77%Cu- Heat exchanger tubes
20%Zn-2%Al
Bronze UNS C93700 85%Cu, Valves, pumps, fittings
10%Sn,
10%Pb
Si. Bronze UNS C87200 Silicon bronze >89%Cu, Valves, pumps, fittings
4%Si
Al. Bronze UNS C61400 2.0932 CuAl8Fe 91%Cu-7%Al- Seawater service
2%Fe
Suggested material cost factors, relative to carbon steel material [API 581, Table 7-26]. Note that the cost
factors may differentiate significantly over time as a result of market developments.
The complete overview of selected materials for equipment, followed by the additional service requirements,
will follow in the concluding section.
The selected piping materials are indicated in material selection diagrams, which are marked-up (colored)
process flow diagrams.
Ammonium Highly localized metal loss Localised NH4HS % in water Formed by thermal or
Bisulfide due to erosion corrosion in (Kp), velocity, pH catalytic cracking in
Corrosion carbon steel and admiralty hydrotreating,
brass. hydrocracking, coking,
catalytic cracking,
amine treating and sour
water effluent and gas
separation systems.
Amine Used in gas treatment to General at Amine type and Amine gas treating units.
Corrosion remove dissolved CO2 and low concentration,
H2S acid gases. Corrosion velocities, material of
generally caused by localised construction,
desorbed acid gases or at high temperature,
amine deterioration velocities acid gas loading,
products.
velocity
Carbon Carbon dioxide is a weakly Localised Carbon dioxide Refinery steam condensate
Dioxide acidic gas which is concentration, system,
Corrosion corrosive when dissolved process hydrogen plant and
in water becoming conditions
the vapor recovery section
carbonic acid (H2CO3).
of catalytic cracking unit.
CO2 is commonly found in
upstream units. Aqueous
CO2 corrosion of carbon
and low alloy steels is an
electrochemical process
involving the anodic
dissolution of iron and the
cathodic evolution of
hydrogen. The reactions
are often accompanied by
the formation of films of
FeCO3 (and/or Fe3O4) that
can be protective or non-
protective depending on
the conditions.
Hydrochloric Typically causes localised Localised Acid %, pH, Crude unit atmospheric
Acid corrosion in carbon and materials of column
corrosion low alloy steel, particularly construction, overhead,
at initial condensation temperature Hydrotreating effluent
points (< 200C).
Austenitic stainless steels trains,
experience pitting and Catalytic reforming effluent
crevice corrosion. Nickel and regeneration systems.
alloys can corrode under
oxidizing conditions.
Sulfuric Acid Very strong acid that Localised Acid %, pH, Sulfuric acid alkylation
Corrosion causes metal loss in material of units, dematerialized water.
various materials and construction,
depends on many factors. temperature,
velocity, oxidants
Hydrofluoric Very strong acid that Localised Acid %, pH, Hydrofluoric acid alkylation
Acid causes metal loss in material of units,
corrosion various materials. construction, dematerialized water.
temperature,
velocity, oxidants
Phosphoric Weak acid that causes Localised Acid %, pH, Water treatment plants.
Acid metal loss. Generally material of
corrosion added for biological construction,
corrosion inhibition in temperature
water treatment.
Phenol Weak organic acid causing Localised Acid %, pH, Heavy oil and dewaxing
(carbonic corrosion and metal loss in material of plants.
acid) various alloys. construction,
corrosion temperature
Below the background is given to the most commonly encountered deterioration mechanisms, for
implementation in a Materials Selection Report, as is applicable for the project.
The addition of chromium to steel increases its resistance to high temperature sulphidation, since
the resultant corrosion scale becomes more protective. This, however, is only valid when no
hydrogen is present in the process media.
To predict the corrosion rates in high temperature sulfidic environments, the modified Mc Conomy
curves, which apply to liquid crude oil streams, can be applied (J.Gutzeit, Process Industries
Corrosion-The Theory and Practice, NACE 1986). These curves, with a correction factor for the
sulphur content, are useful in the absence of naphthenic acid. More information can be found in
NACE publication 34103 item number 24222 dated February 2004.
In the presence of naphthenic acid, the estimated corrosion rates as tabulated in API 581, Appendix
G can be applied.
(If applicable) Experience for heavy hydrocarbons, as vacuum residue, however, has shown that
experienced corrosion rates are generally lower than predicted ones.
(If applicable) Experience for hydrocracking / isocracking units (especially units according
ChevronLummusTechnology design), however, has shown that experienced corrosion rates, in
cases with only traces of sulphur present, can be significantly higher than predicted ones.
Especially high velocities and turbulence will increase the corrosion attack. Above 400C, the
naphthenic acids will either break down or distill into the vapor phase.
Alloying below 12% Cr has little benefit in naphthenic acid corrosion. SS type 304L offers some
resistance to naphthenic acid corrosion. However, in turbulent areas, a molybdenum containing
stainless steel, e.g. SS 316L, is normally required.
The amount of sulphur in the crude has some effect on the anticipated naphthenic acid corrosion.
Estimated corrosion rates for a combination of sulphur and acid corrosion can be found in tables G-
17 to G-25 in API 581 (ed. 2000).
(As applicable:)
- Sulphur and naphthenic acid corrosion is most commonly experienced in atmospheric and vacuum
crude distillation units and downstream systems.
- In hydrotreaters, naphthenic acid corrosion is not expected downstream of the hydrogen addition
point according API 571. However, plant experience has shown that naphthenic acid corrosion is not
reported downstream the reactor.
- In thermal crackers and delayed cokers, naphthenic acids decompose in the furnaces, and
downstream normally no naphthenic acid corrosion is reported.
The Nelson diagram is not suitable for situations in which atomic hydrogen is released by a corrosion
reaction, e.g. wet H2S corrosion. In these cases the hydrogen partial pressure is unknown.
The mechanism by which hydrogen attack occurs consists of the following steps:
Dissociation of hydrogen molecules in the process gas into atomic hydrogen.
Adsorption of hydrogen atoms at the metal surface.
Diffusion of hydrogen atoms into the metal.
Reaction of hydrogen atoms with carbon. This reaction results in methane (CH4) molecules,
especially on grain boundaries along perlite grains.
Due to the formation of methane, decarburization of the steel occurs, causing a weakening of the
steel. Furthermore, the methane gas accumulates and due to its larger molecular size than
hydrogen, it cannot diffuse through the metal. This causes a high internal pressure, leading to micro-
cracks along the grain boundaries. In some cases also blistering may occur.
Hot hydrogen attack can be prevented by using steels that, based on the Nelson curves, have been
found to be resistant to this phenomena at the given process conditions.
The following general rules are applicable to high temperature hydrogen attack.
As stated by R.L. Piehl (see "Survey of Corrosion in Hydrocracker Effluent Air Coolers", in Material
Performance 1, 1976), corrosion to carbon steels becomes severe above a concentration of 2wt%
NH4HS, especially at high flow rates. Estimated corrosion rates can be found in API 581, table G-45
(ed. 2000). To minimize erosion-corrosion, the velocity in the tubes should be limited to 6 m/s. A
minimum of 3 m/s is recommended, however, to minimize fouling and under deposit corrosion.
Above 2wt% NH4HS, heavy wall carbon steel or corrosion resistant steels can be considered. For
air cooler tubes, heavy wall carbon steel tubing can be considered when the chloride content is low.
The header can be CS with an additional erosion-corrosion allowance of 6 mm.
If besides NH4HS, also NH4Cl is present, there is an additional risk for chloride pitting corrosion, and
as a minimum duplex SS shall be applied.
For NH4HS concentrations above 8wt% and/or at high velocities (~10 m/s), alloy 825, or equivalent,
shall be considered.
For more background information on materials of construction, ammonium salts (erosion-) corrosion,
design and inspection of Reactor Effluent Aircooler (REAC) systems API RP 932-B can be consulted.
Some good results have been reported, but it should be noted that application of these inhibitors is
expensive and that an inhibitor is only effective in the areas it can reach.
Using alloyed materials.
List of materials with decreasing corrosion resistance in H2O/NH3/H2S/HCN environments:
Zirconium or PTFE
Titanium alloys
Nickel alloys
Alloy 400
Austenitic stainless steels
Ferritic stainless steels
Carbon steel
Aluminum
The values of above mentioned variables are difficult to quantify. Therefore, the use of copper alloys
in combination with ammonia containing media is normally avoided.
- methanol containing some halides (Cl, Br), for which pure titanium (e.g. grade 1, 2)
are more susceptible
- pure methanol, for which titanium alloys, e.g. grade 5 and 9, are more susceptible.
logV 58
.
1710
T
0.67 * log PCO2
Where T is temperature in K, and PCO2 is partial pressure of CO2 in bara.
Benefit may be drawn from the following factors: (Select only the applicable ones)
Non-ideality of the Gas
High-temperature Protective Films
Contamination of the CO2 Solution with Corrosion Products
Presence of Heavy Hydrocarbon Liquids
Effect of Glycol
The influence of these factors can be put into the corrosion prediction formula above.
If the environment contains no free water, then there is no risk of CO2 corrosion. In gas piping, there
may be a risk of condensation of water if the temperature of the line drops below the water dew
point. Therefore, if possible, the piping should be insulated, or traced and insulated. Furthermore, it
should be sloped and without pockets to minimize corrosion.
Stainless steels as SS304(L), SS316(L) and also (lean) duplex stainless steels UNS S32001,
S32304, S32205 are completely resistant against CO2 corrosion and no corrosion allowance is
required.
For more background information refer to the CLN Best Practice Tools standard PDES 04-3003-
02.002 Materials Selection Guide For CO2 Containing Oil and Gas Facilities.
stream (velocity > 20 m/s), the effect of the protecting scale is lost and the full corrosion rate
according to De Waard / Milliams nomogram is to be expected.
5.19 Erosion
Erosion is the loss of material due to the abrasive effect of a fluid or a gas or fluid stream containing
particles, like sand, salt or solids. The main factors of influence on the erosion rate are:
Flow velocity and flow direction (impingement)
Hardness and strength of the material of construction
Hardness, size and geometry of solid particles
Concentration of the solid particles
Density and viscosity of the carrying medium
Erosion is primarily a concern in piping and equipment, where there is a change in flow direction,
e.g. elbow, tee, valve, or a constriction in flow, e.g. a choke. Erosion is less of a concern in straight
flow situation except in the case of a slurry.
A first tool to minimize the risk of erosion in mixed phase lines is the application of API RP-14E
guidelines. API RP-14E, however, does not account for solids, and incorrectly accounts for the effect
of fluid density.
Erosion can be divided in the following different categories:
Non-corrosive, no solids present
Non-corrosive, solids present
Corrosive service, no solids present
Corrosive service, solids present
The last two categories are also described as erosion-corrosion.
In general, the corrosion rate maintains about proportional to the CO 2 partial pressure. This means
that the calculation prediction as per the CO2 corrosion section remains the most reliable prediction
tool.
In CO2 / H2S systems, the co-formation of a more protective FeS scale can make the FeCO 3 scale
more stable, and hence lower the predicted corrosion rate.
At low temperatures (< 60C), the FeS film itself is also rather unstable, and gives no protection to
the FeCO3 scale. Sufficient CO can give a protective film under low wall shear stress conditions.
At high temperatures (>120C), the FeS film becomes porous and the high temperature protective
FeCO3 scale may locally be disturbed, increasing the corrosion rate.
Galvanic corrosion
Erosion-corrosion
Stress corrosion cracking
5.23.4 Erosion-corrosion
Flow velocity has a pronounced effect on the corrosion rate of metals in saline water /
seawater.
For carbon steel exposed to flow rates above 1.5m/s, the corrosion rates will increase
drastically.
For austenitic stainless steels, pitting corrosion rates can occur under low velocities (<1.5
m/s). At average velocities corrosion rates in general are low, however, at higher velocities
(>40 m/s) corrosion rates will rapidly increase due to erosion-corrosion. This latter is
important for high speed pumps and control valves where high velocities can occur. In these
cases, higher alloys should be used. Furthermore, it should be noted that the critical velocity
for erosion-corrosion also depends on impurities such as sulphur.
Copper and copper-nickel alloys, although very resistant to seawater, will experience
erosion-corrosion if velocities are higher than about 3 m/s.
See also the appendices to this guideline.
steel surface. At low acid concentrations, the iron sulfate corrosion product readily goes into solution.
At high acid concentrations, corrosion is reduced due to accumulation of soft sulfate corrosion
product. This means velocity effects have a strong negative influence on the steel resistance. Steels
may only be suitable at concentrations between 93-98 wt%, at ambient temperatures (< 40C) under
low flow condition (< 0.5 m/s).
Stainless steels have also mixed behavior and are in general only applied in high acid concentration
(90-100 wt%), where a stable passive corrosion behavior can be reached. The addition of
molybdenum to SS increases the resistance. In general, higher alloyed materials, e.g. Alloy 20,
Monel Alloy 400, or other nickel alloys are required.
Aeration and impurities, especially halides, have strong effect on the corrosiveness of the acid.
Aeration in general reduces corrosion of Cr-containing alloys, such as stainless steels, and
accelerates corrosion of non-ferrous alloys.
Anticipated corrosion rates of different materials in sulfuric acid can be found in:
API 581, RBI Base Resource Document, Appendix G.9 (ed. 2000).
Dechema Corrosion Handbook, Volume 8, Sulfuric acid.
Teflon (PTFE, FEP), Kynar (PVDF), and Halar (ECTFE) are examples of sulfuric acid resistant lining
materials. Coatings, in general, can only be applied for dilute sulfuric acid. One exception are hot-
baked phenolic coatings, which are suitable for concentrated acid solutions also.
Kalrez, Aflas, and Viton are examples of elastomer materials that may be applied for sealing rings,
etc. EPDM should only be applied for sulfuric acid concentrations below 60 wt%.
For sulfuric acid piping gaskets, metallic and graphite gaskets are not recommended. Mineral filled
PTFE gaskets are the best solution for concentrated acid lines.
For further reading on Sulfuric Acid corrosion, see PDES 04-3003-02.006.
Teflon (PTFE, FEP), Kynar (PVDF), and Halar (ECTFE) are examples of hydrochloric acid resistant
lining materials. PP linings are chemically resistant up to about 65C. Coatings that can be
considered for storage tanks are vinylester and hot-baked phenolic coatings.
Kalrez, Aflas, and Viton are examples of elastomer materials that may be applied for sealing rings,
etc. EPDM and butyl rubber (IIR) should only be considered for hydrochloric acid solutions below
60C. Neoprene and nitrile rubber seals shall not be applied.
For hydrochloric acid piping gaskets, metallic and graphite gaskets are not recommended. Mineral
filled PTFE gaskets are the best solution for concentrated acid lines.
When metallic alloys have to be applied, Alloy B-2 (N10665) is suitable for all acid concentrations,
also at elevated temperatures. Alloy C-276 (N10276) and Alloy 625 (N06625) should only be applied
at moderate temperatures (ambient, 30C max operating).
Since chloride and water ingress can occur under insulation, all insulated austenitic stainless steel
piping and equipment, which operates above 65C shall also be coated to minimize the risk for stress
cracks.
For non-insulated austenitic stainless steel piping, there is little risk for water and chloride
concentration and coating is in general not required, except for some sites in marine environments
with high humidity.
(If applicable):
Duplex stainless steels will not corrode due to atmospheric conditions, and has a high chloride
resistance. Duplex stainless steel, insulated and non-insulated, do normally not require external
coating.
If applicable:
For bolting, the use of cadmium plated bolts/nuts shall be restricted to 170C, for zinc plated
(galvanized) bolts/nuts, the maximum temperature is 280C.
5.36 Fatigue
Fatigue is the phenomenon of repeated or fluctuating stresses leading to fracture. The stresses are
relatively low, i.e. lower than the tensile strength of the material.
The fatigue life is the number of cycles that can be sustained before the component will fail. The
fatigue life is depending on the stress value and the time between cycles. The repeated stress can
be caused by difference in thermal expansion coefficient of connecting materials. In this case, we
speak of thermal fatigue.
Besides this, the repeated stress can result from rotating parts, such as in compressors.
5.38 Carburization
Carburization can occur when metals are exposed to carbon monoxide, methane, ethane, or other
hydrocarbons at elevated temperatures. Carbon from the environment combines with chromium and
other carbide formers present in the alloy. Carbides form within the grains and along grain
boundaries. The carbides are strong and hard but very brittle.
The overall effect is that the ductility is drastically reduced at temperatures up to about 500C.
Carburization also reduces oxidation resistance and creep strength.
Nickel in combination with chromium is the most effecting element in controlling carburization. In
addition, silicon and aluminum have a beneficial effect.
Welded-on parts,
e.g. supports SS 316L
COMPRESSOR/PUMP
Centrifugal Casing
Impeller
Reciprocating Cylinder
Piston
FILTER Casing
Elements (screen, basket, cartridge)
EJECTOR Casing
Nozzle/Diffuser
* Concerning Plate type HE gasket materials:
The gasket materials generally are available in nitrile rubber (NBR), butyl rubber (IIR), EPDM rubber, and
Viton (FKM). If none of these elastomers is suitable to handle the process environment, then it shall be
requested if PTFE covered gaskets are available, for example PTFE coated NBR or EPDM (SIGMACOAT).
Otherwise, a semi-welded plate type exchanger shall be proposed to the Process Engineer. For a semi-
welded plate exchanger, however, it shall be determined if the process fluid is fouling, and if special cleaning
precautions have to be taken.
* Concerning Plate type HE plate materials:
Since the plate pack is composed of a number of very thin (0.5-0.6 mm) corrugated heat transfer plates, the
minimum to be specified material is austenitic stainless steel. Typical available plate materials are SS 316,
Incoloy (alloy 825), Hastelloy (alloy C-276), and Titanium (grade 1 or 2).
8.0 CLN BEST PRACTICE TOOLS PROCESS DESIGN AND ENGINEERING STANDARDS
For more specific corrosion issues & materials guidelines in specific process units and process media, the
following PDESs are available at CLN:
04-3003-02.002 Material Selection Guide for CO2 containing Oil&Gas Facilities (U.D.)
04-3003-02.003 Material Selection Guide for Visbreaker Units
04-3003-02.004 Material Recommendations in wet H2S Service
04-3003-02.005 Design code aspects for low temperature applications
04-3003-02.006 Sulfuric Acid Material Selection Guide
04-3003-02.008 Material Selection Guide for Amine Units
04-3003-02.009 Material Selection Guide for Sour Water Strippers
04-3003-02.010 Material Selection Guide for Crude Distillation Overhead Systems
04-3003-02.011 Material Selection Guide for Caustic Soda
04-3003-02.013 Material Selection Guide for SSCO Units
Welds between stainless steel and carbon steel are not permitted, because these always
contain local zones of high hardness. Therefore, only flanged connections shall be used.
Base Material, HAZ and Weld shall adhere to the following additional
requirements:
Transverse Charpy impact test at 20 deg C; minimum 40J
Hot yield test at 1000F. Acceptance criteria 40.2 ksi yield strength minimum
Micro examination which indicates a structure of 100% tempered
martensite.
Every pipe shall be PMI checked. Acceptance of the method and equipment
at the discretion of the Principal.
Welded pipe shall be supplied with type 3.2 certificate to EN 10204.
In case of weld repair the following shall be adhered to:
Repair welding shall not start until customers inspector or his representative
has inspected the defect and customer has approved the repair procedure.
Welding shall be with welding consumables E9015-B9-H4 / ER90S-B9 type.
The application of E9018 electrodes requires prior approval from the
Principal.
Preheat 200C minimum.
Interpass temperature 300C maximum.
The weld shall be allowed to cool below 100C before a Reheat treatment.
Heat input shall be monitored during welding procedure qualification and
during production welding. The heat input used during production welding
shall not be higher than 115% of the value recorded during PQR welding.
On the Procedure Qualification Record(s)the following shall be covered.
Base Material, HAZ and Weld shall adhere to the following additional
requirements:
Transverse Charpy impact test at 20 deg C; minimum 40J
Hot yield test at 1000F. Acceptance criteria 40.2 ksi yield strength minimum
Hardness maximum 290HV10, hardness minimum 200HV10
Micro examination which indicates a structure of 100% tempered
martensite.
9.8.2.2 Seamless Pipe
ASTM A335-P91
The nitrogen content shall be 1.5 times higher than the aluminum content
(N/Al> 1.5)
minimum tempering temperature 760C
pipes shall be hydrotested and UT examined
Supplementary Requirement S5 Metallography, 100% tempered martensite
Hot yield test at 1000F. Acceptance criteria 40.2 ksi yield strength minimum.
Extent of testing shall be the same as for other mechanical tests.
Transverse impact test 40J@+20C. Extent of testing shall be the same as
for other mechanical tests.
Any repair welding is not permitted without prior approval from Contractor.
In that case Welding Procedure Specifications and Procedure Qualification
Records shall be submitted to Contractor for review.
Every pipe shall be PMI checked. Acceptance of the method and equipment
at the discretion of the Principal.
Pipe shall be supplied with type 3.2 certificate to EN 10204.
Hardness shall be tested on minimum one (1) pipe per charge and per size.
Minimum hardness 190 HBN.
9.8.2.3 Seamless Fittings
ASTM A234-WP91
The nitrogen content shall be 1.5 times higher than the aluminum content
(N/Al> 1.5)
Minimum tempering temperature 760C
Fittings shall be ordered with 100%PT for 10% of the fittings as per ASTM
E165. Acceptance criteria as per ASME VIII div 1.
Transverse Charpy impact test at 20 deg C; minimum 40J
Hot yield test at 1000F. Acceptance criteria 40.2 ksi yield strength minimum
Extent of testing shall be the same as for other mechanical tests.
Micro examination which indicates a structure of 100% tempered
martensite.
Hardness shall be tested on minimum 1 per charge and per size. Maximum
hardness 248HBN, minimum hardness 190HBN.
Every fitting shall be PMI checked. Acceptance of the method and
equipment at the discretion of the Principal.
Fitting shall be supplied with type 3.2 certificate to EN 10204.
9.8.2.4 Welded Fittings
ASTM A234-WP91
The nitrogen content shall be 1.5 times higher than the aluminum content
(N/Al> 1.5)
Minimum tempering temperature 760C
Fittings shall be ordered with 100%PT for 10% of the fittings as per ASTM
E165. Acceptance criteria as per ASME VIII div 1.
Transverse Charpy impact test at 20 deg C; minimum 40J
Hot yield test at 1000F. Acceptance criteria 40.2 ksi yield strength minimum.
Specimen to include base metal, HAZ and weld metal. Extent of testing shall
be the same as for other mechanical tests.
Micro examination which indicates a structure of 100% tempered
martensite.
Hardness shall be tested on minimum 1 per charge and per size. Maximum
hardness 248HBN, minimum hardness 190HBN.
Every fitting shall be PMI checked. Acceptance of the method and
equipment at the discretion of the Principal.
Welding shall be with welding consumables E9015-B9-H4 / ER90S-B9 type.
The application of E9018 electrodes requires prior approval from the
Principal.
Preheat 200C minimum.
Interpass temperature 300C maximum.
Before PWHT the weld shall be allowed to cool below 100C.
Heat input shall be monitored. The heat input used during production
welding shall not be higher than 115% of the value recorded during PQR
welding.
Welding Procedure Specifications and Procedure Qualification Records
shall be submitted to Contractor for review.
On the Procedure Qualification Record(s) the following shall be covered.
Base Material, HAZ and Weld shall adhere to the following additional
requirements:
Transverse Charpy impact test at 20 deg C; minimum 40J
Hot yield test at 1000F. Acceptance criteria 40.2 ksi yield strength minimum
Micro examination which indicates a structure of 100% tempered
martensite.
UNCONTROLLED COPY IF PRINTED Page 47 of 57
Material Selection
9.8.3 Forgings
ASTM A182 F91
The nitrogen content shall be 1.5 times higher than the aluminum content (N/Al>
1.5)
Minimum tempering temperature 760C
Forgings shall be ordered with 100%PT for 10% of the fittings as per ASTM
E165. Acceptance criteria as per ASME VIII div 1.
Hardness shall be tested on minimum 1 per charge and per size. Maximum
hardness 248HBN, minimum hardness 190HBN.
Any repair welding is not permitted without prior approval from Contractor. In that
case Welding Procedure Specifications and Procedure Qualification Records
shall be submitted to Contractor for review.
Hot yield test at 1000F. Acceptance criteria 40.2 ksi yield strength minimum.
Extent of testing shall be the same as for tension tests required by A182.
Transverse impact test 40J@+20C. Extent of testing shall be the same as for
tension tests required by A182.
Micro examination which indicates a structure of 100% tempered martensite.
Extent of testing shall be the same as for tension tests required by A182.
Every forging shall be PMI checked. Acceptance of the method and equipment
at the discretion of the Principal.
9.8.4 Castings
ASTM A217-C12A
The nitrogen content shall be 1.5 times higher than the aluminum content (N/Al>
1.5)
Minimum tempering temperature 760C
UNCONTROLLED COPY IF PRINTED Page 48 of 57
Material Selection
A703 S4 Magnetic Particle Inspection as per ASME B16.34 for Special Class
Valves. Radiographic Examination as per ASME B16.34 for Special Class
Valves.
A703 S8 Charpy Impact Testing at 20 deg C; minimum 40J
A703 S13 Hardness Testing, Maximum hardness 248HBN, minimum hardness
175HBN.
A703 S10 Examination of Weld Preparation.
A703 S14 Tension test from each heat and heat treatment charge.
A703 S21 Heat Treatment Furnace Record
A703 S22 Mandatory Post Weld heat treatment (of repair welds).The Post Weld
Heat Treatment temperature shall be aimed between 745 - 760C, but at least
15C below the tempering temperature of the base materials
Hot yield test at 1000F. Acceptance criteria 40.2 ksi yield strength minimum.
Extent of testing shall be the same as for tension tests required by A703 S14.
Every casting shall be PMI checked. Acceptance of the method and equipment
at the discretion of the Principal.
For every weld repair Welding Procedure Specifications and Procedure
Qualification Records shall be submitted to Contractor for review.
In case of weld repair the following shall be adhered to:
Welding shall be with welding consumables E9015-B9-H4 / ER90S-B9 type. The
application of E9018 electrodes requires prior approval from the Principal.
Preheat 200C minimum.
Interpass temperature 300C maximum.
The weld shall be allowed to cool below 100C before a PWHT.
Heat input shall be monitored during welding procedure qualification and during
production welding. The heat input used during production welding shall not be
higher than 115% of the value recorded during PQR welding.
On the Procedure Qualification Record(s)the following shall be covered:
Base Material, HAZ and Weld shall adhere to the following additional
requirements:
Transverse Charpy impact test at 20 deg C; minimum 40J
Hot yield test at 1000F. Acceptance criteria 40.2 ksi yield strength minimum
Hardness maximum 290HV10, hardness minimum 200HV10
Micro examination which indicates a structure of 100% tempered martensite.
Tests are developed to check whether a certain material has the required properties. These properties include
strength, toughness, hardness etcetera.
Tensile test
A tensile test measures the resistance of a material to a static or slowly applied force. Ultimate tensile strength
(UTS), often shortened to tensile strength (TS) or ultimate strength, is the maximum stress that a material can
withstand before necking, which is when the specimen's cross-section starts to significantly contract. The UTS is
usually found by performing a tensile test and recording the stress versus strain; the highest point of the stress-
strain curve is the UTS. It is an intensive property, therefore its value does not depend on the size of the test
specimen. However, it is dependent on other factors, such as the preparation of the specimen and the temperature
of the test environment and material.
Tensile strength is defined as a stress, which is measured as force per unit area. In the SI system, the unit is
pascal (Pa) or, equivalently, newtons per square meter (N/m). The customary unit is pounds-force per square inch
(lbf/in or psi), or kilo-pounds per square inch (ksi), which is equal to 1000 psi; kilo-pounds per square inch are
commonly used for convenience when measuring tensile strengths.
Many materials display linear elastic behavior, defined by a linear stress-strain relationship, as shown in appendix
2, in which deformations are completely recoverable upon removal of the load - that is, a specimen loaded
elastically in tension will elongate, but will return to its original shape and size when unloaded. Beyond this linear
region, for ductile materials, such as steel, deformations are plastic. A plastically deformed specimen will not return
to its original size and shape when unloaded. Note that there will be elastic recovery of a portion of the
deformation. For many applications, plastic deformation is unacceptable, and is used as the design limitation.
After the yield point, ductile metals will undergo a period of strain hardening, in which the stress increases again
with increasing strain, and they begin to neck, as the cross-sectional area of the specimen decreases due to plastic
flow. In a sufficiently ductile material, when necking becomes substantial, it causes a reversal of the engineering
stress-strain curve (curve A); this is because the engineering stress is calculated assuming the original cross-
sectional area before necking. The reversal point is the maximum stress on the engineering stress-strain curve,
and the engineering stress coordinate of this point is the tensile ultimate strength, given by point 1.
Tensile testing, also known as tension testing, is a fundamental materials science test in which a sample is
subjected to uniaxial tension until failure. The results from the test are commonly used to select a material for an
application, for quality control, and to predict how a material will react under other types of forces. Properties that
are directly measured via a tensile test are ultimate tensile strength, maximum elongation and reduction in area.
A tensile specimen is a standardized sample cross-section. It has two shoulders and a gage section in between.
The shoulders are large so they can be readily gripped, where as the gage section has a smaller cross-section so
that the deformation and failure can occur in this area.
The apparatus consists of a pendulum axe swinging at a notched sample of material, see appendix 3. The energy
transferred to the material can be inferred by comparing the difference in the height of the hammer before and after
a big fracture.
The notch in the sample affects the results of the impact test, thus it is necessary for the notch to be of a regular
dimensions and geometry. The size of the sample can also affect results, since the dimensions determine whether
or not the material is in plane strain. This difference can greatly affect conclusions made.
The "Standard methods for Notched Bar Impact Testing of Metallic Materials" can be found in ASTM E23, ISO 148-
1 or EN 10045-1, where all the aspects of the test and equipment used are described in detail.
Hardness test
Hardness is the property of a material that enables it to resist plastic deformation, usually by penetration.
Hardness is not an intrinsic material property dictated by precise definitions in terms of fundamental units of mass,
length and time. A hardness property value is the result of a defined measurement procedure.
The usual method to achieve a hardness value is to measure the depth or area of an indentation left by an indenter
of a specific shape, with a specific force applied for a specific time. There are three principal standard test methods
for expressing the relationship between hardness and the size of the impression, these being (see appendix 4 and
5):
- Brinell (round, hardened steel ball),
- Vickers (four sided diamant pyramid), and
- Rockwell (coned diamant).
For production hardness measurements on equipment and piping there are portable hardness measurement
devices available. In the old days this was the Poldi hammer. Nowadays the Telebrineller and Microdur are applied.
The Equotip shall normally not be used.
Creep Test
Creep occurs under load at high temperature. Boilers, gas turbine engines, and ovens are some of the systems
that have components that experience creep. An understanding of high temperature materials behavior is
beneficial in evaluating failures in these types of systems.
High temperature progressive deformation of a material at constant stress is called creep. High temperature is a
relative term that is dependent on the materials being evaluated. A typical creep curve is shown in appendix 6.
In a creep test a constant load is applied to a tensile specimen maintained at a constant temperature. Strain is
then measured over a period of time. The slope of the curve, identified in appendix 6, is the strain rate of the test
during stage II or the creep rate of the material.
Primary creep, Stage I, is a period of decreasing creep rate. Primary creep is a period of primarily transient creep.
During this period deformation takes place and the resistance to creep increases until stage II. Secondary creep,
Stage II, is a period of roughly constant creep rate. Stage II is referred to as steady state creep. Tertiary creep,
Stage III, occurs when there is a reduction in cross sectional area due to necking or effective reduction in area due
to internal void formation.
Stress Rupture
Stress rupture testing is similar to creep testing except that the stresses used are higher than in a creep test.
Stress rupture testing is always done until failure of the material. In creep testing the main goal is to determine the
minimum creep rate in stage II. Once a designer knows the materials will creep and has accounted for this
deformation a primary goal is to avoid failure of the component.
All these methods aim to check for material flaws, which occur due to rolling, casting, welding, heat treatments etc.
The usability of the non destructive testing methods depends on the construction and its material of construction.
For example it is very difficult to do UT on stainless steel welds. Non ferrous materials cannot be magnetic particle
tested.
Ultrasonic examinations are performed for the detection and sizing of internal defects, flaws or discontinuities in
piping, castings, forgings, weldments or other components. Exact sizing techniques have been developed to detect
and monitor progressive cracking in a variety of equipment.
Dry magnetic particle examinations and wet fluorescent magnetic particle examinations are performed on
ferromagnetic materials to detect surface and slight subsurface discontinuities. Specialized wet fluorescent
magnetic particle techniques are available for black light internal examinations of equipment through borescopes.
Either an X-ray machine or a radioactive source (Ir-192, Co-60, or in rare cases Cs-137) can be used as a source
of photons. Neutron radiographic testing (NR) is a variant of radiographic testing which uses neutrons instead of
photons to penetrate materials. This can see very different things from X-rays, because neutrons can pass with
ease through lead and steel but are stopped by plastics, water and oils.
Since the amount of radiation emerging from the opposite side of the material can be detected and measured,
variations in this amount (or intensity) of radiation are used to determine thickness or composition of material.
Penetrating radiations are those restricted to that part of the electromagnetic spectrum of wavelength less than
about 10 nanometres.
The beam of radiation must be directed to the middle of the section under examination and must be normal to the
material surface at that point, except in special techniques where known defects are best revealed by a different
alignment of the beam. The specimen to be inspected is placed between the source of radiation and the detecting
device, usually the film in a light tight holder or cassette, and the radiation is allowed to penetrate the part for the
required length of time to be adequately recorded.
The result is a two-dimensional projection of the part onto the film, producing a latent image of varying densities
according to the amount of radiation reaching each area. It is known as a radiograph, as distinct from a photograph
produced by light. The radiograph is examined as a negative, without printing as a positive as in photography.
Defects such as delaminations and planar cracks are difficult to detect using radiography, which is why penetrants
are often used to enhance the contrast in the detection of such defects. Penetrants used include silver nitrate, zinc
iodide, chloroform and diiodomethane. Choice of the penetrant is determined by the ease with which it can
penetrate the cracks and also with which it can be removed. Diiodomethane has the advantages of high opacity,
ease of penetration, and ease of removal because it evaporates relatively quickly. However, it can cause skin
burns.