Understanding the Sources and Remedies of HYDROGEN-ASSISTED CRACKING IN TRANSMISSION PIPELINE APPLICATIONS

摘要

Hydrogen-assisted cracking is a problem that can impact the welding of transmission pipelines, as well as other field applications. Both the weld metal and the heat-affected zones can be affected by the presence of hydrogen, and the potential for hydrogen-assisted cracking (HAC) or heat-affected zone (HAZ) cracking increases as the strength of the steel increases. Still, many industries - driven by high fuel costs and increased safety regulations - are increasingly demanding stronger, bat lighter-weight materials. This push has also resulted in the need for lower hydrogen filler metals and processes. Understanding the many sources of hydrogen and how to eliminate or reduce them is an important first step in implementing a sound solution to protect against hydrogen-assisted cracking.