Skip to main content
U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Hydrogen attack of carbon-0. 5-molybdenum steels

Conference · · Proc., Am. Pet. Inst., Refin. Dep.; (United States)
OSTI ID:5196800

Carbon and low-alloy steels are susceptible to deterioration of mechanical properties when exposed to hydrogen gas at elevated temperatures and pressures. The resulting deterioration of properties has been referred to as hydrogen attack. The recommended operating limits of hydrogen partial pressure and temperature accepted by the petroleum industry are presented in API Publication 941. During the last 3 years, the Exxon Corporation has found hydrogen attack of the carbon-0.5-molybdenum steels at hydrogen partial pressure and temperatures that were previously believed to be below the conditions required to cause attack. These experiences also demonstrated that a stress relief heat treatment will not necessarily prevent attack. This paper reviews these experiences and the preventive measures being taken by Exxon to minimize the probability of existing carbon-0.5-molybdenum steel equipment failure from hydrogen attack.

Research Organization:
Exxon Research and Engineering Company, Florham Park, New Jersey
OSTI ID:
5196800
Report Number(s):
CONF-8205233-
Journal Information:
Proc., Am. Pet. Inst., Refin. Dep.; (United States), Journal Name: Proc., Am. Pet. Inst., Refin. Dep.; (United States) Vol. 61; ISSN PAPDD
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English