What is stress corrosion cracking?
Stress corrosion cracking (SCC) is a phenomenon where the combination of tensile stress and a corrosive environment leads to the formation of cracks in a material. It typically occurs in metals and alloys and can weaken structural integrity. SCC is often found in industries such as oil and gas, chemical processing and nuclear power. The cracking process is influenced by factors such as material composition, applied stress levels, and the specific corrosive environment present.
News on stress corrosion cracking
Below you can find a selection of news and articles related to stress corrosion cracking in stainless steels. If you wish to contribute with your case study on stress corrosion cracking, please contact the Stainless Steel World editor
The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), using highly alloyed stainless steel reinforcing bar in its concrete structures
Sandvik Steel has launched a new range of welding wire, covered and strip electrodes and fluxes for welding nuclear steam generator tubing.
Advanced Metals International Group, the leading multi-metal stockholder/supplier and metal processor, announce the availability of new high performance strands and wire ropes for industrial, marine and chemical environments.
Sandvik Steel has launched a new range of welding wire, covered and strip electrodes and fluxes for welding nuclear steam generator tubing.
Sandvik Steel has developed a super duplex filler metal which matches the properties of 13% chromium super martensitic stainless steel used for pipelines in the oil and gas industries.
The Lowry arts complex in Salford, UK, contains over 22,000 m2 of stainless steel manufactured by AvestaPolarit.
A series of accidents has recently been affecting swimming pools all over Europe, with lampposts, air conditioners, ceilings and other suspended objects falling.
A new stainless steel has been developed by Sandvik Steel, specifically for use in the production of Urea.
New products will feature alongside a wide range of filler wire and rods, covered and strip electrodes and fluxes for welding stainless and high alloy steels on Sandvik’s Steel stand at Schweissen Schneiden.
A new stainless steel has been developed by Sandvik Steel, specifically for use in the production of urea.
The dangers of SCC
Stress corrosion cracking (SCC) is a complex and potentially catastrophic phenomenon that occurs when a combination of tensile stress, a corrosive environment, and a susceptible material interact. Unlike traditional corrosion, which is a gradual and uniform degradation of a material, stress corrosion cracking involves the formation and propagation of cracks, often leading to sudden failure.
Stress corrosion cracking commonly affects metals and alloys, such as stainless steels, aluminum alloys, and nickel-based alloys. It can occur in various industries, including oil and gas, chemical processing, aerospace, marine, and nuclear power.
The specific mechanisms behind stress corrosion cracking are complex but certain conditions are known to promote its occurrence. These include the presence of a corrosive environment (e.g., chloride ions in aqueous solutions), applied tensile stress, and material susceptibility. The combination of these factors leads to crack initiation, propagation, and eventual failure.
Cracks associated with stress corrosion failure can develop in different patterns, such as intergranular, transgranular, or a combination of both. The cracks may follow grain boundaries or propagate through the grains of the material. Stress corrosion is often difficult to detect because it can occur internally, hidden from visual inspection.
Can you prevent stress corrosion cracking?
Preventing stress corrosion cracking involves understanding and controlling the factors that contribute to its initiation. Strategies include material selection, minimizing tensile stress levels, applying protective coatings, utilizing corrosion inhibitors, and maintaining appropriate environmental conditions. Regular inspections, non-destructive testing, and monitoring are crucial to identifying early signs of stress corrosion cracking and preventing catastrophic failures.
