[ Hydrogen Embrittlement ] autoclaves of the SSRT machine. As can be seen from the data in Figure 3, the material DMV 316L shows a slight hydrogen embrittlement, whereas the DMV 316LMoS shows no hydrogen embrittlement.
[ Hydrogen Embrittlement ] autoclaves of the SSRT machine. As can be seen from the data in Figure 3, the material DMV 316L shows a slight hydrogen embrittlement, whereas the DMV 316LMoS shows no hydrogen embrittlement.
Discussion Hydrogen embrittlement is a complex phenomenon that can significantly degrade a material’ s mechanical properties, such as the ductility of steel. In extreme cases, embrittlement can even lead to material failure without the influence of external load. The occurrence and severity of hydrogen embrittlement are determined by a combination of factors: hydrogen application conditions( such as pressure and temperature), applied stresses, and material properties, including chemical composition and microstructure. Generally, as hydrogen exposure conditions, like pressure and load intensity, become more demanding, higher-quality materials are required, which are typically associated with increased material costs. For austenitic stainless steels, the nickel equivalent serves as an important indicator of hydrogen resistance. Higher nickel equivalents in standard austenitic stainless steels generally correlate with improved resistance to hydrogen embrittlement, although there are exceptions to this rule. Various formulas exist to calculate the nickel equivalent, each adapted to specific compositional or environmental requirements. To evaluate the hydrogen resistance of austenitic stainless steels, Slow Strain Rate Testing( SSRT) is commonly used. A case study demonstrated that the DMV 316L MoS alloy, with its higher nickel equivalent, exhibits superior hydrogen resistance compared to standard 316L under highpressure conditions. Nonetheless, both DMV 316L and DMV 316LMoS steels show high hydrogen resistance overall. In addition to technical considerations, cost factors must also be considered in material selection, as austenitic stainless steels with higher nickel equivalents are generally have increased costs.
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About the author
Tim Wallbaum is the R & D and Sustainability Manager for the DMV GmbH in Mülheim, Germany. Tim has a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering and as a young engineer and manager, is keen to make a contribution to sustainable steel production and processing.
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