Studying complex phenomena such as sulfide stress cracking (SSC) of carbon and low alloy steels (LAS) requires a holistic historical perspective. For example, understanding the influence of microstructure on SSC resistance was made possible thanks, in part, to advances in electron and transmission electron microscopy. Since the early SSC failures that affected oil and gas equipment short after World War II,[1]-[2] much of our understanding of the underlying failure mechanisms as well as industry regulations matured in parallel with improvements in characterization techniques and new discoveries in the realm of physical metallurgy and corrosion. Nevertheless, the fundamental assumptions that led to the development of international standards such as NACE MR-0175 and ISO 15156 have more or less remained unchanged since their introduction more than 40 years ago. The persistence of the restriction in the allowable nickel content, the sole focus on hardness and strength limits rather than controlling causative factors such as the presence of untempered martensite illustrate this disjunctive quite well.
A historical perspective
I have recently started to compile a timeline describing the key events that catalyze the development of the NACE MR–0715 specification as well as the fundamental research that exploded as a consequence of recurrent failures and global standardization activities. I hope to gain a better understanding not only on SSC of LAS but also on the reasons that led to certain controversial decisions in standardization committees.
Although it is a still a work in progress, I like to share the timeline with the community. I would very much like to get feedback from anyone working in this area, in particular from people that might have been involved in early research and NACE committee discussions.
The timeline is embedded below and, thanks to the magic of the cloud, it will always be up-to-date. The entries can be expanded or collapsed for better viewing. There are a basic search function as well as zoom and panning tools. The full-screen version can be accessed HERE.
References
1. D.E. Milliams, R.N. Tuttle, “ISO 15156/NACE MR0175 - A New International Standard for Metallic Materials for Use in Oil and Gas Production in Sour Environments,” CORROSION 2003, paper no. 03090 (16–20 March, San Diego, CA: NACE International, 2003).
2. Patrick, D. H.,“MR0175 - A History and Development Study,” CORROSION 99, paper no. 418 (25–30 April, San Antonio, TX: NACE International, 1999).
Source: https://www.aboutcorrosion.com/
Comments