GP 06-20 Materials

Document No.
GP 06-20
Applicability IMSL
Date 12 November 2007
Guidance on Practice for

Materials for Sour Service
GP 06-20
INEOS Manufacturing Scotland Limited

ENGINEERING TECHNICAL PRACTICES
12 November 2007 GP 06-20
Guidance on Practice for Materials for Sour Service
Foreword
This is the first issue of Engineering Technical Practice (ETP) GP 06-20. This Guidance on Practice
(GP) is based on parts of heritage documents as follows:
IMSL
GS 136-1 Materials for Sour Service March 1997 (Amendment 1 – October 2001).
Page 2 of 42
Table of Contents
Page
Foreword............................................................................................................................................2
Introduction.........................................................................................................................................6
Material types.....................................................................................................................................6
Cracking susceptibility and avoidance...............................................................................................6
Service failures...................................................................................................................................6
Oil flow line HIC failure of carbon steel pipe - 1972..................................................................6
Downhole tubular string SSC failure of Alloyed 13% Cr steel - 2001......................................6
Failure by SOHIC of carbon steel spiral welded pipe (Saudi Aramco) - 1998..........................7
Failure by SSC/SOHIC of carbon steel pressure vessel (Unocal) - 1984.................................7
Responsibility.....................................................................................................................................7
General outline of a sour service plan................................................................................................7
1. Scope........................................................................................................................................9
2. Normative references................................................................................................................9
3. Terms and definitions..............................................................................................................11
4. Symbols and abbreviations.....................................................................................................12
5. Factors affecting cracking.......................................................................................................13
5.1. General materials factors.............................................................................................13
5.2. General environmental factors.....................................................................................13
5.3. Factors affecting SSC..................................................................................................14
5.4. Factors affecting SZC..................................................................................................14
5.5. Factors affecting GHSC...............................................................................................14
5.6. Factors affecting HIC/SWC and blistering...................................................................15
5.7. Factors affecting SOHIC..............................................................................................15
5.8. Factors affecting SCC..................................................................................................16
6. Distinction between Upstream (oil and gas) and Downstream (refining)................................16
6.1. Different environments for Upstream and Downstream...............................................16
6.2. Upstream (oil and gas) NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156....................................................17
6.3. Downstream (refining) NACE MR0103........................................................................17
7. Upstream requirements (oil and gas)......................................................................................18
7.1. Upstream (oil and gas) - Qualification of cracking-resistant carbon and low alloy steels
and cast irons (for SSC, SZC, HIC and SOHIC resistance) (NACE MR0175/
ISO 15156 – Part 2 and Part 1)...................................................................................18
7.2. Upstream (oil and gas) – Qualification of cracking-resistant CRAs and other alloys for
SSC, SCC, and GHSC (NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156 – Part 3 & Part 1)......................21
8. Downstream (refining) – Materials resistant to Sulfide Stress Cracking in corrosive petroleum
refinery environments (NACE MR0103).................................................................................24
8.1. Overview......................................................................................................................24
Page 3 of 42
8.2. Confirmation of SSC resistance (NACE MR0103/ NACE RP0472).............................24

8.3. Qualification for HIC & SOHIC resistance....................................................................25
9. IMSL equipment-specific requirements...................................................................................27
9.1. Pressure vessels..........................................................................................................27
9.2. Heat exchanger tube bundles......................................................................................28
9.3. Piping...........................................................................................................................28
9.4. Pipelines......................................................................................................................29
9.5. Downhole tubulars.......................................................................................................29
9.6. Valves..........................................................................................................................30
9.7. Rotating machinery......................................................................................................31
9.8. Instrumentation............................................................................................................33
9.9. Bolting..........................................................................................................................34
9.10. Bellows.........................................................................................................................34
9.11. Low temperature plant.................................................................................................34
9.12. Metallic overlays..........................................................................................................34
10. Fabrication..............................................................................................................................34
10.1. Weld procedure qualification........................................................................................34
10.2. Heat treatment general requirements..........................................................................35
10.3. PWHT for carbon steel pipework.................................................................................36
10.4. Removal of fabrication defects.....................................................................................36
10.5. NDE.............................................................................................................................36
10.6. PWHT for carbon steel plate........................................................................................36
11. Related H2S-containing alkaline services...............................................................................36
11.1. General requirements for equipment...........................................................................36
11.2. Sour streams containing caustic soda.........................................................................36
11.3. Sour streams containing carbonates...........................................................................38
11.4. Sour streams containing amines..................................................................................38
12. Identification, stamping, and marking.....................................................................................38
12.1. Hard stamps.................................................................................................................38
12.2. Marking paints, crayons...............................................................................................38
13. Inspection................................................................................................................................38
13.1. IMSL approval of procedures.......................................................................................38
13.2. Documentation and inspection.....................................................................................38
13.3. Hardness checks.........................................................................................................39
13.4. Heat treatment.............................................................................................................39
Annex A.1 (Normative) Specification for Z-quality steel plate..........................................................40
A.1.1 Scope......................................................................................................................................40
A.1.2 Definition.................................................................................................................................40
A.1.3 Material...................................................................................................................................40
A.1.3.1 Standards................................................................................................................40
A.1.3.2 Steel making process..............................................................................................40
A.1.3.3 Chemical composition.............................................................................................40
A.1.4 Inspection requirements for plate............................................................................................40
Page 4 of 42
A.1.4.1 Ultrasonic examination............................................................................................40

A.1.4.2 Through-thickness tensile test................................................................................40
A.1.5 Weld repair of plate.................................................................................................................41
Annex A.2 (Normative) Specification for HIC resistant steel plate...................................................42
A.2.1 Scope......................................................................................................................................42
A.2.2 Manufacturing.........................................................................................................................42
A.2.2.1 Standards................................................................................................................42
A.2.2.2 Process...................................................................................................................42
A.2.2.3 Heat treatment........................................................................................................42
A.2.2.4 Chemical composition.............................................................................................42
A.2.3 Testing....................................................................................................................................42
A.2.3.1 Ultrasonic examination............................................................................................42
A.2.3.2 HIC/SWC test..........................................................................................................43
A.2.4 Weld repair of plate.................................................................................................................43
Annex A.3 (Informative) Example of domain diagrams....................................................................44
Annex A.4 (Informative) In-service issues........................................................................................45
A.4.1 Inspection................................................................................................................................45
A.4.2 Hydrogen flux monitoring........................................................................................................45
A.4.3 Mitigating methods..................................................................................................................46
Bibliography......................................................................................................................................47
List of Figures
Figure 1 - NACE caustic soda service chart.....................................................................................37
Page 5 of 42
Introduction
Material types
Numerous types of material are used in sour service including carbon steel, low alloy steels, corrosion
resistant alloys and other alloys. This has resulted in an extensive amount of satisfactory service
experience.
Cracking susceptibility and avoidance
Materials need to be chosen with care however, since they are potentially susceptible to various
cracking mechanisms, the particular type depending upon the specific material. For satisfactory
service therefore, it is necessary to understand both the environmental conditions and also the
metallurgical condition of the material that gives rise to the maximum resistance to cracking.
Service failures
Despite much satisfactory service experience, the oil industry, including IMSL has seen a number of
failures caused by exposure to wet H2S environments, affecting different equipment and spanning
many years. Such failures can potentially be very costly and have severe health, safety, and
environmental consequences. The following are some examples of failures:
Oil flow line HIC failure of carbon steel pipe - 1972

a. Sub-sea sour oil pipe, offshore in the Middle East.
b. The pipe was NPS 30, X60 which was sub-arc seam welded.
c. Pipe was formed from fully killed controlled rolled mild steel plate, whose microstructure
exhibited long, thin manganese sulfide inclusions.
d. HIC cracking occurred between the manganese sulfide inclusions.
e. Cracks linked through the plate’s thickness resulting in a 3 ½ in longitudinal crack.
Downhole tubular string SSC failure of Alloyed 13% Cr steel - 2001

a. This was on gas production downhole tubulars in an onshore gas-field, in Louisiana, USA.
b. The wells were high pressure/temperature gas producers yielding 45 mmscf/d, containing
50 ppm H2S and 8,7 mol % CO2 (0,5 psi H2S, pH 3,5).
c. Well completion was with an alloyed martensitic 13Cr steel, (13Cr/4Ni/1Mo) 95 ksi
strength tubing.
d. Packerless completion allowed produced fluid to contact the tubing OD.
e. Tubing failed by SSC at localised sites of cold work on the OD (at locations with slip and
tong marks).
f. Gas, water and sand flowed from the tubing bore to the annulus, resulting in significant
erosion of both the tubing and casing.
g. Tubing was replaced with super-martensitic 13Cr 95 ksi 13Cr/5Ni/2Mo that has increased
H2S resistance over the previously used 13Cr/4Ni/1Mo alloy. Also care was taken to
minimise slip/tong damage.
Page 6 of 42
h. Casing was repaired with an expandable solid casing patch.
Failure by SOHIC of carbon steel spiral welded pipe (Saudi Aramco) - 1998
a. Spiral welded pipe can be particularly susceptible to SOHIC.
b. SOHIC failures on spiral-welded pipe occurred in the Middle East, and SOHIC cracking
was found on three out of 39 joints.
c. Residual stresses are very high in spiral-welded pipe and the pipe was subject to a high
hydrogen charging rate.
d. The material that had suffered SOHIC had a threshold stress of 17 ksi, whilst non-failed
material had a higher threshold stress of 30-35 ksi.
e. Conventional longitudinally welded pipes were also present in the line and exhibited HIC
but not SOHIC.
Failure by SSC/SOHIC of carbon steel pressure vessel (Unocal) - 1984

a. This was at a Unocal refinery in Lemont, Illinois with several fatalities.
b. The vessel was in amine absorber service.
c. Failure occurred by SOHIC emanating from an SSC crack.
d. Cracking was initiated at the location of a repair to a stress relieved vessel, which was
carried out without PWHT.
e. Other features were a mis-matched joint and some internal cladding with Monel alloy 400
nearby.
Responsibility
The responsibility is now placed on the Equipment User by both NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156 (Oil and
Gas Production) and NACE MR0103 (Refining) to ensure that the materials used in sour service are fit
for purpose.
The different oil & gas production and refining standards reflect the different operating conditions,
with higher pressures and more acid conditions (lower pH) being present in oil and gas production
plant, often making the conditions more onerous.
General outline of a sour service plan
In view of the propensity to failure of equipment in wet H2S environments, if not properly controlled,
it is imperative to have a sour service plan which covers the following:
a. Initial materials selection which complies with either of the following:

1. NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156 (Oil and Gas Production) or
2. NACE MR0103 (Downstream).
b. Detailed operational aspects, including the environmental conditions and inspection
requirements to confirm continued integrity (Annex A.4).
c. Additional requirements set by appropriate IMSL ETP specifications.
The following is a list of important issues that are discussed in this document:
a. Distinction between Upstream (Oil and Gas Production) and Downstream (Refining).
b. Environmental conditions.
Page 7 of 42
c. SSC resistance of materials.

d. SCC resistance of materials.
e. HIC/SWC resistance of materials.
f. SOHIC & SZC resistance of materials.
g. Equipment specific requirements.
h. Fabrication.
i. Related services e.g. alkaline/H2S environments.
j. In-service issues.
Page 8 of 42
1. Scope
This GP provides guidance as follows:
a. Requirements are given to avoid environmental cracking of materials to be used for

equipment in sour service i.e. fluids containing water and hydrogen sulfide (H 2S).
b. This document is supplementary to the NACE Oil and Gas and Refining standards:
1. NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156, Oil and Gas Production (Upstream).
2. NACE MR0103, Refining (Downstream).
c. Additional IMSL-specific requirements are given, including other aspects related to
cracking, not included in the NACE standards.
d. General corrosion is not covered in this document and is therefore a separate consideration.
2. Normative references
The following normative documents contain requirements that, through reference in this text,
constitute requirements of this technical practice. For dated references, subsequent amendments to, or
revisions of, any of these publications do not apply. However, parties to agreements based on this
technical practice are encouraged to investigate the possibility of applying the most recent editions of
the normative documents indicated below. For undated references, the latest edition of the normative
document referred to applies.
American Petroleum Institute (API)

API Spec 5CT Specification for casing and tubing (ISO 11960).
API RP 579 Fitness for Service.
API RP 945 Guidelines for Avoiding Corrosion and Cracking Problems in Amine
Units.
American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)

ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code
Section IX Standard for Welding and Brazing Procedures, Welders, Brazers, and
Welding and Brazing Operators.
American Society for Non-destructive Testing (ASNT)

ASNT SNT-TC-1A Recommended Practice for No. SNT-TC-1A.
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)

ASTM A193/A193M Standard Specification for Alloy-Steel and Stainless Steel Bolting
Materials for High-Temperature Service.
ASTM A194/A194M Standard Specification for Carbon and Alloy Steel Nuts for Bolts for
High Pressure or High Temperature Service, or Both.
ASTM A264 Standard Specification for Stainless Chromium-Nickel Steel-Clad Plate.
ASTM A265 Standard Specification for Nickel and Nickel-Base Alloy-Clad Steel
Plate.
ASTM A395/A395M Standard Specification for Ferritic Ductile Iron Pressure-Retaining
Castings for Use at Elevated Temperatures.
Page 9 of 42
ASTM A516/A516M Standard Specification for Pressure Vessel Plates, Carbon Steel, for
Moderate- and Lower-Temperature Service.
ASTM A841/A841M Standard Specification for Steel Plates for Pressure Vessels, Produced by
Thermo-Mechanical Control Process (TMCP).
IMSL
GIS 34-101 Guidance on Industry Standard for ISO 10439 Axial Centrifugal Air
Compressors (API 617).
GIS 34-102 Guidance on Industry Standard for API 672 Integrally Geared Centrifugal
Compressors (ISO 10442).
GIS 34-103 Guidance on Industry Standard for ISO 13631 Packaged Reciprocating
Gas Compressors (Formerly API 11P).
GIS 34-104 Guidance on Industry Standard for ISO 13707 Reciprocating
Compressors (API 618).
GIS 34-106 Guidance on Industry Standard for API 619 Rotary Screw Compressors
(ISO 10440-1, DIS 10440-2).
GIS 34-107 Guidance on Industry Standard for API 617 Expanders.
GIS 34-108 Guidance on Industry Standard for API 617 Integrally Geared Process
Compressors.
GIS 34-201 API 610 Centrifugal Pumps (ISO 13709).
GIS 34-202 Guidance on Industry Standard for ASME B73.1 Centrifugal Pumps.
GIS 34-203 Guidance on Industry Standard for ASME B73.2M Centrifugal Pumps.
GIS 34-204 Guidance on Industry Standard for ISO 5199 Centrifugal Pumps.
GIS 34-205 Guidance on Industry Standard for ISO 15783 Seal-less Centrifugal
Pumps.
GIS 34-701 Guidance on Industry Standard for ISO 10438 Lubrication, Seal Oil, and
Gas Seal Systems (API 614).
GP 36-10 Guidance on Practice for Metallic Material Selection.
GP 36-12 Guidance on Practice for Metallic Materials for Amine Service.
GIS 36-102 Guidance on Industry Standard for Hardness Testing, Post Weld Heat
Treatment, Stress Relief, and Pickling for Pressure Vessels, Piping, and
other Components.
GIS 36-107 Guidance on Industry Standard for Integral Cladding, Weld Overlay, and
Limited Loose Lining of Pressure Vessels and Components.
GIS 42-101 Guidance on Industry Standard for Fabrication, Assembly, Erection, and
Inspection of Carbon, Carbon Manganese, and Low Alloy Steel Pipework
(ASME B31.3).
GIS 42-102 Guidance on Industry Standard for Fabrication, Assembly, Erection, and
Inspection of Austenitic and Duplex Stainless Steel, Cupro-Nickel,
Nickel Base Alloy, Titanium, and Zirconium Pipework (ASME B31.3).
GIS 43-331 Guidance on Industry Standard for Welding Exceptions for API 1104.
GIS 43-332 Guidance on Industry Standard for Welding Exceptions for ISO 13847.
GIS 43-333 Guidance on Industry Standard for Welding Exceptions for BS 4515.
GIS 46-010 Guidance on Industry Standard for New Pressure Vessels.
GP 06-60 Guidance on Practice for Coating of Metal Surfaces and Equipment.
GP 18-03 Guidance on Practice for Heat Exchanger Tube End Fixing (GS 118-8).
GP 52-10 Guidance on Practice for Materials for Thermal Insulation of Pipework
and Equipment (GS 152-1).
Page 10 of 42
British Standards Institute (BSI)

BS EN 10028 Flat product made of steels for pressure purposes –
Part 1: General requirements.
Part 2: Non-alloy and alloy steels with specified elevated temperature
properties.
Part 3: Weldable fine grain steels, normalised.
Part 4: Nickel alloy steels with specified low temperature properties.
Part 5: Weldable fine grain steels, thermomechanically rolled.
Part 6: Weldable fine grain steels, quenched and tempered.
Part 7: Stainless steels.
BS EN 10160 Ultrasonic testing of steel flat product of thickness equal or greater than
6 mm (reflection method).
BS EN 10164 Steel products with improved deformation properties perpendicular to the
surface of the product – Technical delivery conditions.
BS EN 10204 Metallic products – Types of inspection documents.
International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO)

ISO 6508-1 Metallic materials—Rockwell hardness test —
Part 1: Test method (scales A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, K, N, T).
ISO 11960 Petroleum and Natural Gas Industries, Steel pipes for use as Casing or
Tubing for wells (API Spec 5CT).
ISO 15156 Petroleum and natural gas industries (Oil & Gas) – Materials for use in
H2S-containing environments in oil and gas production
(NACE MR0175).
Part 1: General principles for selection of cracking-resistant materials.
Part 2: Cracking-resistant carbon and low alloy steels & the use of cast
iron.
Part 3: Cracking-resistant CRAs (corrosion resistant alloys) & other
alloys.
NACE International (NACE)

NACE MR0103 Materials Resistant to Sulfide Stress Cracking in Corrosive Petroleum
Refining Environments.
NACE MR0175 Petroleum and Natural Gas Industries (Oil and Gas) – Materials for use in
HS Containing Environments in Oil and Gas Production (ISO 15156).
NACE RP0403 Avoiding Caustic Stress Corrosion Cracking of Carbon Steel Refinery
Equipment and Piping.
NACE RP0472 Methods and Controls to Prevent In-Service Cracking of Carbon Steel
Weldments in Corrosive Petroleum Refining Environments
NACE TM0284 Test Method-Evaluation of Pipeline Steels for Resistance to Stepwise
Cracking.
3. Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this GP, the following terms and definitions apply:
(See NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156 Parts 1, 2, & 3 – Section 3 for full details)
pH (measure of acidity/alkalinity)
Minus log of hydrogen ion concentration
Page 11 of 42
pH2S (partial pressure of H2S)

Pressure of H2S that would be exerted if present alone, at the same temperature, in the total volume
occupied by the mixture.
Sour service
Exposure to environments that contain H2S and liquid water (H2O) and can cause cracking of materials
by the mechanisms addressed in this document
Hydrogen flux
Hydrogen atoms produced by corrosion that may diffuse into the steel resulting in various damage
mechanisms. This species is often referred to as nascent hydrogen and / or H 0
Hydrogen flux is defined as a flow of hydrogen per unit area and is typically measured in pico litres
(pl) of gaseous hydrogen at 20°C (68°F) per cm2 of steel surface, per second i.e. pl/cm2/s. Hydrogen
flux is affected by pH and pH2S and other factors such as the presence of cyanides and arsenic.
Pressure
Where the NACE standards refer to pressure, this shall be taken as the design pressure.
4. Symbols and abbreviations
For the purpose of this GP, the following symbols and abbreviations apply:
(See NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156 Parts 1, 2 & 3 – Section 3 for full details)
ASCC Alkaline stress corrosion cracking
CE Carbon equivalent
CLR Crack length ratio
CSR Crack sensitivity ratio
CTR Crack thickness ratio
ERW Electric Resistance Welded
FPB Four point bend
GHSC Galvanically induced hydrogen stress cracking
HAZ Heat affected zone
HIC Hydrogen-induced cracking
HSC Hydrogen stress cracking
IIW International Institute of Welding
PWHT Post weld heat treatment
SCC Stress corrosion cracking
SOHIC Stress-oriented hydrogen-induced cracking
Page 12 of 42
SSC Sulfide stress cracking
SWC Stepwise cracking
SZC Soft zone cracking
TMCP Thermo mechanical control process
UT Uniaxial tension
5. Factors affecting cracking
5.1. General materials factors
5.2. General environmental factors
5.3. Factors affecting SSC

Maximum acceptable hardness levels to minimize the possibility of SSC cracking are specified
in NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156 or NACE MR0103 and RP0472.
5.4. Factors affecting SZC
5.5. Factors affecting GHSC
5.6. Factors affecting HIC/SWC and blistering
5.7. Factors affecting SOHIC
5.8. Factors affecting SCC
6. Distinction between Upstream (oil and gas) and Downstream (refining)
Where H2S conditions vary, peak transient conditions shall be used in design.
6.1. Different environments for Upstream and Downstream

a. Acidity
The acidity shall be defined.
b. Chloride
The chloride content shall be defined.
c. Contaminants
Contaminants such as cyanides, arsenic, ammonia, etc. shall be reported and considered in
material selection.
d. Defined environment
Conditions shall be clearly defined when establishing the suitability of a material.
e. Changes to NACE MR0175 (now MR0175/ ISO 15156)
Changes were made to MR0175 that related the materials performance more closely to oil
and gas environments, particularly for SCC.
6.2. Upstream (oil and gas) NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156

a. Mechanisms – SCC, HIC/SWC, SOHIC, SZC, and GHSC are included as well as SSC.
b. Overview – Selection of materials for sour service should involve the following:
Page 13 of 42
1. Qualify the suitability of materials by any of the following:

a) Selecting from a pre-qualified list in NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156.
b) Laboratory testing.
c) Documented field experience.
2. Define the service environment in terms of the aggressive species.
3. Document materials properties that affect cracking and confirm that they meet sour
service requirements e.g. hardness values.
4. Document quality control of the material.
5. Evaluate materials for resistance to cracking by the various mechanisms.
c. Non-metallic materials
1. General
a) Non-metallic seal materials and seal geometry shall be subject to approval by
IMSL.
b) Elastomer selection shall take into account the complete operating conditions to
be encountered i.e. temperature, pressure and environment.
2. Low H2S levels
a) Nitrile rubber (NBR) shall have a maximum long-term limit of exposure
between 10 ppm and 100 ppm, depending on seal geometry and temperature.
b) Hydrogenated Nitrile rubber (HNBR) shall have a maximum long-term limit of
exposure between 100 ppm and 1 000 ppm, depending on seal geometry and
temperature.
3. For H2S levels ≤ 5%
a) FKM ‘Viton’ type fluoroelastomers shall be used or
b) TFEP ‘Aflas’.
4. For H2S levels > 5%
a) FFKM perfluoroelastomers (Chemraz or Kalrez) shall be used.
b) PTFE may also be selected, but requires a different type of seal configuration
compared with that for elastomers.
6.3. Downstream (refining) NACE MR0103

a. This standard includes the following:
1. Materials requirements for SSC resistance in sour petroleum refining and related
process environments.
2. Hardness limits to resist SSC for carbon & low alloys steels, CRAs, and other alloys.
b. Other forms of wet H2S cracking (i.e. HIC/SOHIC) are not included so these should be
considered separately.
Page 14 of 42
7. Upstream requirements (oil and gas)
7.1. Upstream (oil and gas) - Qualification of cracking-resistant carbon and low alloy
steels and cast irons (for SSC, SZC, HIC and SOHIC resistance) (NACE MR0175/
ISO 15156 – Part 2 and Part 1)
7.1.1. Overview
Qualification is required for the following:
a. SSC resistance.
b. SZC resistance.
c. HIC/SWC resistance.
d. SOHIC resistance.
7.1.2. SSC resistance
7.1.2.1. Select from pre-qualified list of SSC-resistant materials

a. Definition of sour service environment for SSC resistance (Part 2 – Section 7.1).
1. pH2S ≥ 0,3 kPa (0.003 bar; 0,05 psi).
2. SSC-resistant steel is selected.
b. Pre-qualified list is in NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156 Part 2 – Annex A
Carbon and low alloy steels hardness requirements – Section A.2.
7.1.2.2. Select based on laboratory testing for specific conditions

NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156 – Part 2 – Section 7 and Annex B)
a. A material that is not included in the pre-qualified list, but is required for use, shall be
qualified by testing under the same conditions as those already pre-qualified.
A material may also be qualified for less aggressive conditions, specific to a particular
service environment (known in-situ pH and pH2S).
b. IMSL specific requirements for SSC resistance.
1. A number of grades are considered fully sour resistant such that qualification
testing/use of domain diagrams are not considered necessary. These include API
Spec 5CT/ISO 11960 grades K55, J55, L80, C90, and T95.
2. IMSL has developed individual material domain diagrams for SSC resistance that
indicate domains in which the ‘not fully sour resistant’ material may be used. An
example is given in Annex A.3.
3. Downhole tubing and casing materials for carbon and low alloy steels for which
domain diagrams have been produced include:
a) API Spec 5CT/ISO 11960 Grade N80 Carbon Steel.
b) API Spec 5CT/ISO 11960 Grade P110 Carbon Steel.
c) Grade C110 ‘Sour Resistant’ Low Alloy Steel.
7.1.2.3. Qualification based on field experience:

This approach is allowed if the following procedure is followed:
a. Materials properties are defined and documented.
b. Service environment is defined and documented.
c. Service experience is at least 2 years to give sufficient confidence.
Page 15 of 42
d. A full inspection of the equipment has been carried out after service.
7.1.3. Requirements for HIC/SWC resistance (Part 2 – Annex B, B5)
7.1.3.1. General
a. The user is required when evaluating flat-rolled carbon steel products for sour service
(Part 2 – clause 8) to consider HIC/SWC if there is even a trace amount of H2S present.
Test procedures are given in Annex B, clause B5 and according to NACE TM0284 with
alternative environments (Table B.3).
b. Other products, such as forgings, castings and seamless products shall simply restrict the
sulphur content in the steel in line with NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156.
7.1.3.2. IMSL specific requirements for flat rolled products (e.g. plate & submerged arc welded
(SAW) line pipe
a. Material selection - Materials with increased resistance to these cracking mechanisms shall
be specified by IMSL if HIC/SWC are considered, utilising one of the following three
approaches:
1. Z-quality steel (used in vessel manufacture, etc.) detailed in Annex A.1 of this
document.
2. HIC-resistant steel detailed in Annex A.2 that also refers to improvement in SOHIC
resistance.
3. Carbon steel internally clad with stainless steel/nickel based alloy.
b. IMSL special HIC test requirements (relevant to Annex A.2)
1. For H2S < 1 ppm - No consideration of HIC/SWC required.
2. For pH2S ≥ 0,3 kPa (0,05 psi)
a) HIC test in the following solution (Test solution A)
5%NaCl + 0,5% CH3COOH + pH2S 100 kPa (15 psi).
b) IMSL acceptance criteria unless otherwise agreed
CLR < 10%, CTR < 3%, CSR < 1%.
3. For intermediate H2S (> 1 ppm but < 0,3 kPa (0,05 psi), either:
a) Use mills/manufacturing routes with demonstrated capability of producing fully
HIC resistant steel or
b) Treat as for the pH2S ≥ 0,3 kPa (0,05 psi) case.
Note Recent experience within IMSL has shown that some HIC of
materials that are not designed to be fully HIC resistant can
occur, even under very mildly sour conditions. Therefore it is
not recommended that the route of application specific HIC
testing under ‘milder environment conditions’ than the
standard NACE Test Solution A be taken, until and unless
suitable acceptance criteria to replace the ‘no cracking’
criteria in NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156, have been
established.
c. Exceptions
1. There is experience within IMSL and elsewhere that under some conditions of very
high H2S levels, HIC has not been a problem, and therefore special precautions may
not be necessary.
Page 16 of 42
2. Due cognizance therefore may be taken of local experience when specifying special
requirements to prevent HIC.
a) If measures are not taken, details of the conditions and satisfactory experience
shall be fully documented within the Business Unit/facility in which it is being
applied.
b) Every situation should be considered on the merits of the long term experience.
7.1.4. Possible requirements for SOHIC and SZC testing (Part 2 Annex B, B4)
a. SOHIC and SZC testing should be considered for plate steels and products made from
welded plate (Part 2 – clause 7.2.2). This could involve either the following small-scale
tests (clause B.4.2) or a full pipe ring test (clause B.4.3).
b. Tests for SOHIC and SZC are not yet standardized, but evaluation can be carried out by
(Annex B, clause B.4):
1. Sectioning un-failed UT or FPB SSC test samples to check that there are no ladder-
like cracks > 0,5 mm (0,020 in) in the through-thickness direction or
2. Test remaining tensile strength (after hydrogen degassing) to confirm it is ≥ 80% of
original actual tensile strength of material.
c. IMSL specific requirements
In cases where SOHIC/SZC should be considered, IMSL may specify steel with increased
resistance to these cracking mechanisms. Annex A.2 mentions the benefits of TMCP and
Q+T steels in this respect.
7.2. Upstream (oil and gas) – Qualification of cracking-resistant CRAs and other
alloys for SSC, SCC, and GHSC (NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156 – Part 3 & Part 1)
7.2.1. Overview
Material shall be qualified for the following conditions:
a. SSC and SCC resistance, which is achieved by either:
1. Selection from pre-qualified material or
2. Laboratory testing under specific service conditions or
3. Based on satisfactory documented service experience.
b. GHSC resistance
This should be considered only if a specific problem is anticipated and previous IMSL
experience has been that this has been rarely considered.
c. Latest details of the capability of specific alloys should be checked, as changes have been
made to the pH2S/pH limits compared with earlier NACE MR0175 revisions, and some
alloys have been withdrawn or their use restricted.
7.2.2. Pre-qualified CRA/other alloys – Part 3 – Annex A

a. IMSL specific requirements for 300 series austenitic stainless steel
IMSL specific requirements for this material are as follows.
1. Heat treatment (refer to GIS 36-102 for additional guidelines)
a) Parent material/cold formed items
- Solution annealing at 1 050°C (1 920°F) or
- Thermal stabilization at 900/950°C (1 650/1 740°F)
Page 17 of 42
b) Welded equipment
For welded equipment, stabilized or low carbon grades shall be used, and shall
be heat treated in one of the above conditions as specified by IMSL.
c) Possible embrittlement
For pipework in low temperature service, or if the piping code includes notch
toughness requirements, welding procedure tests should be carried out to ensure
that PWHT does not result in unacceptable embrittlement.
2. Bellows
Austenitic stainless steels shall not be used for bellows or other components in the
cold worked or highly stressed condition. UNSN08825, among others, may be used
for this duty.
3. Crevices
The use of socket welded fittings, threaded couplings, or any other weld detail that
could result in a crevice on the process side is not permitted.
4. Overlays
Fusion-bonded overlays of Stellite or Colmonoy may be applied to stabilized or low
carbon grades of austenitic stainless steels, provided that the component is
subsequently heated rapidly to 900/950°C (1 650/1 740°F), held for 1 hour per 25 mm
(1 in) of thickness and cooled in still air.
5. Marine environments
Marine environments often promote external chloride attack. In such cases, the
following shall apply:
a) External protection
Austenitic stainless steels shall be protected externally if they are to operate at
temperatures between 40°C (100°F) and 120°C (250°F) in chloride-containing
environments, i.e. areas close to the sea.
b) Tropical areas
Stainless steels for use in tropical marine areas, as specified by IMSL, shall be
protected externally before transporting to site and the protection maintained
during construction and operation at site. Protection of welds and associated
heat-affected zones are most important. Any painting specification used in the
context of this clause shall be subject to IMSL approval.
c) Thermal insulation
Thermal insulation of pipework and equipment shall be as required by GP 52-10
and GP 06-60.
7.2.3. Qualification of CRAs by laboratory testing

The user shall consult the individual IMSL material diagrams for SSC resistance that indicate
domains in which the material may be used as follows:
a. Downhole tubing and casing CRA materials for which domain diagrams have been
produced include:
1. API Spec 5CT/ISO 11960 L80 13Cr Steel.
2. Super 13Cr 95 ksi Alloys. Annex A.3 of this document gives examples of domain
diagrams for 1 000 ppm and 120 000 ppm chloride.
3. Super 13Cr 110 ksi Alloys.
4. 22%Cr Duplex Stainless Steel.
5. 25%Cr Super Duplex Stainless Steel.
Page 18 of 42
b. Forgings and bar stock CRA materials commonly used in the manufacture of downhole
equipment for which domain diagrams have been produced include:
1. 13Cr Steel (AISI 410 and AISI 420 Modified).
4. 17/4PH Precipitation Hardening Stainless Steel.
5. Alloy 450 Precipitation Hardening Stainless Steel.
7.2.4. Qualification of CRAs by field experience
7.2.4.1. General
a. Materials properties shall be defined and documented
b. Service environment shall be defined and documented
c. Service experience shall be at least 2 years to give sufficient confidence
d. There shall have been a full inspection of the equipment after service
IMSL have some limits that are different from NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156 and in some
cases a IMSL specific interpretation of NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156 has been required,
e.g.:
7.2.4.2. UNS S17400 martensitic stainless steel for equipment

a. IMSL current policy on UNS S17400 valve stems for sour service is:
1. New procurements shall fully comply with NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156.
2. Existing/replacement valves from stock
a) Continued use of UNS S17400 is justified if:
There have been no service failures and
Operating conditions have not changed (particularly H2S levels and in-situ pH).
b) For every valve replacement, continued use of UNS S17400 is considered
acceptable if it can be confirmed that:
H2S levels will be maintained within the original specification.
The in-situ pH has not reduced.
No failure has occurred as a result of SSC, SCC, or other H2S-related
mechanism.
No change of duty is intended (i.e. original design basis has not changed).
7.2.4.3. UNS N07090 (Nimonic alloy 90)

Hardness shall be limited to:
a. HRC 35 (solution annealed + age hardened).
b. HRC 50 (cold worked + age hardened) – for springs.
8. Downstream (refining) – Materials resistant to Sulfide Stress Cracking in

corrosive petroleum refinery environments (NACE MR0103)
8.1. Overview
a. This standard includes the following:
1. Material requirements for SSC resistance in sour petroleum refining and related
process environments.
Page 19 of 42
2. Hardness limits to resist SSC for carbon and low alloy steels, CRAs/other alloys.
3. Definition of sour conditions based on previous refinery experience.
b. Other forms of wet H2S cracking (i.e. HIC/SOHIC) are not covered so these are considered
separately.
8.2. Confirmation of SSC resistance (NACE MR0103/ NACE RP0472)
8.2.1. Factors affecting SSC resistance

a. Hardness of weldments in carbon steel classified as P1 in the ASME Boiler and Pressure
Vessel Code Section IX shall comply with NACE RP0472.
b. The chemical composition of forgings should be evaluated to assure hardenability is low
enough to not affect SSC resistance.
8.2.2. Basis for selection of materials for SSC resistance

Responsibilities are as follows:
a. User shall be responsible for defining the service environment.
b. User shall be responsible for selection of the appropriate material.
c. Manufacturer shall be responsible for the material meeting the metallurgical requirements.
8.2.3. Definition of a sour environment

IMSL Upstream have experience that indicates that the > 50 ppmw dissolved H2S criterion of
NACE MR0103 is not conservative for instances where acid pH conditions can occur and
therefore its use for oil and gas production facilities is not advisable..
8.2.4. Selection of pre-qualified materials

Lists of pre-qualified carbon and low alloy steels and CRA materials that are resistant to SSC
are given in NACE MR0103 as follows:
a. Section 2 (Ferrous materials).
b. Section 3 (Non-ferrous materials).
8.3. Qualification for HIC & SOHIC resistance
8.3.1. Importance of steel product form
8.3.2. Materials issues for plate

a. Plate materials for wet H2S service shall be selected with an adequate degree of HIC
resistance for the process stream.
b. The following shall be considered to achieve HIC resistance
1. Low sulphur and phosphorus contents.
2. Vacuum degassing.
3. Low oxygen.
4. Reduction in non-metallic inclusions.
5. Some use of inclusion shape control by Ca.
6. Develop more homogenous microstructure.
7. Heat treatment – normalized, Q+T, TMCP.
8. Apply ultrasonic acceptance criteria.
Page 20 of 42
8.3.3. Material options for improved HIC/SOHIC resistance

a. Carbon steel with improved resistance to HIC/SWC shall be selected. If noted, verification
testing is required. The material may be selected from the following options.
1. Z-quality material with verification testing
a) The material shall meet a 35% minimum in short transverse reduction of area in
a through-thickness tensile test.
2. HIC resistant material with verification testing
a) This is qualified by HIC testing in accordance with NACE TM0284.
b) HIC resistant grades are covered by Annex A.2. and are specified in IMSL for
higher severity environments.
c) IMSL specific requirement
• Test in 5%NaCl + 0,5% CH3COOH + pH2S 100 kPa (15 psi).
• Acceptance criteria CLR < 10%, CTR < 3%, CSR < 1%).
3. SOHIC resistant material - Some HIC resistant steels may have some susceptibility to
SOHIC, so there shall be IMSL materials/corrosion specialist involvement in
purchase of these steels, to determine the need for any SOHIC testing.
b. Stainless steel/nickel alloy integrally clad or weld overlayed plate may be used as an
alternative to carbon steel for service in severe hydrogen charging environments.
8.3.4. Design issues

Consideration shall be given to the use of the following beneficial design features:
a. Nozzles - A minimum nozzle size of DN 50 (NPS 2) to assist NDE.
b. Flanges - Avoidance of slip-on flanges in wet H2S service.
c. Internals - Installation of removable internals to allow access for inspection.
d. Internal attachment welds - Use of full penetration welds to avoid the creation of closed
cavities into which hydrogen could diffuse and exert a pressure.
e. Impingement - Avoidance of local high impingement areas, which could be subject to
damage of protective films or scales.
9. IMSL equipment-specific requirements
9.1. Pressure vessels
9.1.1. Carbon and low alloy steels

a. Carbon steel composition
1. The carbon content for plate shall be a maximum of 0,23%.
2. The CE shall be 0,43% maximum based on product analysis and calculated in
accordance with the CE (IIW) formula as follows:
CE = C + Mn + Cr + Mo + V + Ni + Cu
6 5 15
b. Service conditions - If the severity of sour service conditions varies within equipment, the
whole vessel shall be designed to be suitable for the most stringent conditions.
c. SSC resistance - Material hardness requirements shall, as appropriate, comply with:
1. NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156 (Upstream) or
Page 21 of 42

3. NACE RP0472 (Downstream).
d. HIC/SWC and SOHIC resistance
1. Material shall be selected to take account of HIC/SWC cracking.
2. Consideration should be given to the possible need for measures to avoid SOHIC.
e. Internal bolting - Internal bolting shall be resistant to SSC.
f. PWHT and/or stress relief - Pressure vessels, including heat exchanger shells, channels and
floating heads, should be stress relieved. Stress-relieving heat-treatment procedures shall
be as required by GIS 46-010, GP 36-10 and GIS 36-102.
9.1.2. Austenitic SS, duplex SS, & nickel base alloys and internally clad carbon steel
Approval - IMSL specification approval is required.
9.2. Heat exchanger tube bundles

a. The following procedures shall be implemented for tube-end welding.
1. Carbon steel – If satisfactory hardness can not be obtained in the ‘as-welded’
condition then either PWHT shall be applied or the tube sheet shall be faced with low
carbon weld metal and stress relieved prior to tube end welding.
2. Low alloy steel – Either PWHT of tube end welds shall be applied or the tubesheet
shall be overlaid with a nickel base alloy such as alloy 625 (UNS N06625).
b. Welding procedure qualification - The welding procedure qualification tests shall be in
accordance with this GP and GP 18-03.
9.2.2. Austenitic, duplex, & nickel alloys and internally clad carbon steel
The welding procedure qualification tests for these materials shall comply with GP 18-03.
9.3. Piping

a. Carbon steel composition
1. The carbon content for piping made from plate, seamless pipe, and forged fittings
shall be a maximum of 0,23%.
2. The CE shall be 0,43% maximum based on product analysis and calculated in
accordance with the CE (IIW) formula as per 9.1.1.2.
b. HIC/SWC and SOHIC/SZC - For pipe made from plate in which hydrogen blistering,
HIC/SWC, or SOHIC may occur, material shall be selected to take account of HIC/SWC
cracking and possible measures considered for avoidance of SOHIC/SZC cracking.
c. ERW pipe - ERW pipe shall not be used for sour service unless there is specific IMSL
approval.
d. PWHT
1. Carbon steel piping shall be welded with the objective of meeting the NACE
MR0175/ ISO 15156 or NACE MR0103/ NACE RP0472 hardness criteria in the as-
welded conditions.
Page 22 of 42
2. Where the hardness requirement cannot be met in the as-welded condition or the
applicable code requires PWHT, the requirements of GP 36-10 and GIS 36-102 shall
be taken account of.
3. Low alloy steel piping shall be subject to PWHT irrespective of pipe size or wall
thickness.
e. Fabricated piping - Fabricated piping shall comply with GIS 42-101, GP 36-10,
GIS 36-102.
9.3.2. Austenitic, duplex, and nickel alloys

Fabricated piping
a. Fabricated piping shall comply with GIS 42-102 and GIS 36-102.
b. Hardness levels and any associated heat treatment shall, as appropriate, be subject to:
1. NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156 (upstream) or
2. NACE MR0103 (downstream).
9.4. Pipelines
a. Standards - Pipelines and associated fittings shall be subject to GIS 43-331, GIS 43-332, or
GIS 43-333.
b. IMSL approval
1. Material specifications shall be subject to approval by IMSL. ERW pipe is not
allowed for sour service unless there is specific IMSL approval.
2. HIC/SWC testing
a) Production control tests using the method of NACE TM0284 shall be carried out
on pipeline steels specified by IMSL to confirm that they are resistant to HIC as
detailed elsewhere in this document.
b) Other tests may be specified by IMSL for manufacturing procedure
qualification. Acceptance criteria for these tests shall be subject to approval by
IMSL.
c. SOHIC/SZC testing - SOHIC/SZC testing should be considered as detailed elsewhere in
this document.
d. Full diameter pipe testing - Full diameter pipe HIC/SWC/SOHIC testing may be required,
and if so, details will be specified by IMSL.
e. Mill and site welding - The mill and site welding procedures shall be carried out as
specified in clause 10.
f. Hardness test results - The specific service environment to which the pipeline will be
subjected will be taken into account by IMSL when assessing the results of hardness
surveys.
g. PWHT - PWHT of field girth welds of pipelines is not required unless specified by IMSL,
in which case the details shall be subject to IMSL approval.
9.5. Downhole tubulars

Key variables - Specific requirements for the selection of downhole tubular steels are described
in clause 7, and shall take account of the following variables:
a. In-situ pH.
b. Concentration of H2S.
Page 23 of 42
c. Concentration of chlorides.
d. Temperature.
9.6. Valves
a. Standards - Material selection and fabrication procedures shall be in accordance with, as
appropriate, either:
1. NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156 (Upstream) or
3. NACE RP0472 Downstream).
b. Contact with the environment
1. Valve parts that can be contacted by the sour environment shall conform to this GP.
2. Items that are not freely vented to atmosphere such as insulated and buried equipment
and bolts inside flange protectors, where leakage of the process stream could subject
the equipment to a sour environment, shall conform to this GP.
3. Valve parts not subjected to sour environment need not comply with this GP.
c. Plated components - Material on which plating is deposited shall conform to this GP.
1. The plating shall be resistant to sour service.
2. Cadmium and zinc plating shall not be used for this service
d. Welding and repairs – PWHT
1. Structural welding and weld repairs of any cast component in contact with sour
service shall be followed by PWHT for low alloy steels, martensitic stainless steels,
and other materials in which welding can produce unacceptable microstructures
and/or hardness.
2. Repairs to valve balls, gates, discs, plugs, etc. shall be subject to PWHT for low alloy
steels, martensitic stainless steels, and other materials where welding can produce
unacceptable microstructures and /or hardness.
e. Valve springs resistant to SSC
1. Valve springs shall be made from materials resistant to SSC. Acceptable spring
materials are given in clause 7.2
2. This requirement shall also apply to bellows-sealed safety or relief valves, which
discharge into a common header or piping system.
f. Protected valve springs
1. Suitably protected non-resistant materials may be proposed for approval for large
springs if the cost of resistant materials is high, and if failure is not critical. Typical
protection methods include:
a) Flexible 2-pack epoxy paint formulation for service up to 100°C (212°F).
b) Aluminium metal spray plus sealer.
c) Fluorinated polymer coatings applied by the fluidised bed process.
2. If coatings have been accepted, the complete spring shall be protected and special
attention shall be given to the half coils at the spring ends.
g. Internal bolting - Internal bolting in valves shall be resistant to SSC.
h. Packing
Page 24 of 42
1. The packing selected shall be compatible with the stem material.

2. Uninhibited graphite or carbon-type packing shall not be used.
9.7. Rotating machinery
9.7.1. General
a. Sour service SSC resistance - If H2S is present, rotating machinery shall conform to the
following. If H2S is present rotating machinery shall conform to the following:
1. NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156 (upstream) or
2. NACE MR01013 (downstream) &
3. NACE RP0472 (downstream).
For reciprocating compressors, the presence of any level of H2S shall result in the
specification and use of suitable SSC resistant materials.
b. General material requirements
1. Materials selected and fabrication procedures and associated equipment shall comply
with NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156 or NACE MR0103 as appropriate.
2. Items made from 11/13% Cr shall be double tempered.
c. Cast irons
1. These materials may be used for internal components if allowed by the equipment
standard and subject to approval by IMSL.
2. None of these materials shall be weld repaired.
d. Carbon steel for fabricated casings exposed to wet H2S - Plate shall be HIC resistant and
shall comply with Annex A.1 or A.2.
e. Shafts and piston rods
1. Shafts and piston rods in plain carbon, low alloy, medium alloy, and 11-13%
chromium steels shall be heat treated to minimise residual stresses, and shall have a
hardness not exceeding 248 HV10 (HRC22) and a yield stress not exceeding
620 N/mm2 (90 000 lbf/in2).
2. Shafts in austenitic and duplex stainless steel shall be in the solution annealed
condition.
3. Precipitation hardened nickel alloy shafts shall comply with NACE MR0175/
ISO 15156.
4. 17Cr 4Ni precipitation hardening stainless steel shall comply with clause 7.2.
5. The straightening of shafts after completion of machining shall not be commenced
without prior approval from IMSL.
6. Machining errors may not be rectified by metal coatings without the specific approval
of IMSL.
f. Welds - Fabrication welds and repair welds shall be heat treated as follows:
1. Carbon steel – PWHT as per GIS 36-102
2. Low alloy steels: PWHT details shall be subject to approval by IMSL.
3. Martensitic stainless steel (11-13% chromium steel): Re-heat treat completely
including double temper.
4. Austenitic stainless steels: Do not normally require PWHT, any thermal treatment
shall be subject to IMSL review and approval.
Page 25 of 42
5. Duplex stainless steels: Subject to approval by IMSL.
9.7.2. Centrifugal pumps

a. Standards - Centrifugal pumps shall conform to GIS 34-201, GIS 34-202, GIS 34-203,
GIS 34-204, or GIS 34-205 except as modified by this GP and NACE MR0175/
ISO 15156 or NACE MR0103 /NACE RP0472 as appropriate.
b. Shafts
1. Shafts in plain carbon and low alloy steels shall be protected from the process stream
by corrosion-resistant sleeves, cap nuts (where applicable), etc.
2. Unprotected 11-13% chromium steel may be used only if it has adequate corrosion
resistance to the process fluid and it shall comply with clause 9.7.1.
9.7.3. Reciprocating compressors

a. Sour service SSC resistance - For reciprocating compressors, the service shall be regarded
as sour if the gas contains any level of H2S.
b. Standards - Materials and fabrication procedures shall be in accordance with this GP,
GIS 34-103, GIS 34-104, and NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156 or NACE MR0103/ NACE
RP0472 as appropriate.
c. Piston rods
1. Piston rods shall be either 11-13% chromium steel or an alternative material approved
by IMSL and shall comply with clause 9.7.1.
2. Rods may be hardened in the region of the packing by surface induction hardening.
d. Liners
1. Liners shall be resistant to the corrosive environment.
2. If cast iron would be corroded, a suitable grade of austenitic cast iron may be
proposed for IMSL approval.
e. Miscellaneous components
1. Valve plates, rings, channels, seats, and stops shall be made from 11-13% chromium
steel, unless otherwise approved by IMSL.
2. Items made from 11-13% Cr shall be double tempered.
f. Valves involving flexing plates
1. Valves involving flexing plates are not normally permitted.
2. The only possible exceptions could be as follows, but only after IMSL approval:
a) If proof is available of satisfactory service.
b) If the valve plate stresses for the application proposed are low enough to render
SSC unlikely.
g. Valve springs
1. These shall be in accordance with NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156 or NACE MR0103 as
appropriate.
2. The design stress shall not exceed 276 N/mm2 (40 000 lbf/in2).
9.7.4. Centrifugal compressors and expanders

a. Standards - Centrifugal compressors and expanders shall conform to both:
1. GIS 34-101, GIS 34-102, GIS 34-107, or GIS 34-108 except as modified by this GP.
Page 26 of 42
2. NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156 or NACE MR0103/ NACE RP0472 as appropriate.

b. Fabrication - Fabrication processes that result in cold-worked material e.g. riveting of
impellers shall not be employed unless prior approval has been obtained from IMSL.
9.7.5. Rotary type positive displacement compressors

a. Standards - Rotary-type positive displacement compressors shall conform to:
1. GIS 34-106 except as modified by this GP and
2. NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156 or NACE MR0103/ NACE RP0472 as appropriate.
9.7.6. Lubrication, shaft sealing and control oil system

a. Standards - Lubrication, shaft sealing and control oil systems shall conform to GIS 34-701
except as modified in this GP.
b. Extent of sour service - Equipment in contact either with seal oil or gas that is sour as
defined in this GP, e.g. vessels, pumps, piping, valves, etc., shall conform to this GP as
regards material selection and fabrication procedures.
9.8. Instrumentation
a. Process line specification - Instrument piping shall be in accordance with the associated
process line specification.
b. Items that cannot be heat treated
1. Bellows, diaphragms, Bourdon tubes, items that cannot be heat treated after welding,
and components that cannot function in the softened condition shall be fabricated
from materials resistant to cracking in the hardened and/or cold worked or non-
heat-treated conditions as defined in NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156 or NACE MR0103
as appropriate.
2. UNS N08825 and UNS N04400 may be proposed for IMSL approval.
c. Compression fittings
1. Compression fittings in type 316L stainless steel may be used subject to NACE
MR0175/ ISO 15156 or NACE MR0103 as appropriate.
2. For relatively high temperature and high chloride service, IMSL may require the use
of more corrosion resistant alloys.
9.9. Bolting
a. Sour service SSC resistance - Bolting shall comply with NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156 or
NACE MR0103 as appropriate if in contact with any concentration of wet H 2S.
b. Austenitic stainless steels
1. Austenitic stainless steels shall comply with NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156 or NACE
MR0103 as appropriate.
2. If austenitic stainless steel bolts and nuts are required, these items shall be free from
cold work; they shall be solution treated after thread forming as follows:
a) Bolts shall be Class 1A of ASTM A193/A193M e.g. B8MA (Type 316 bolts
solution treated after all cold work including thread forming).
b) Nuts shall be of the ‘A’ suffix variety of ASTM A194/A194M e.g. Grade 8MA
(Type 316) solution treated after all hot or cold working.
Page 27 of 42
c. High strength steels - High strength steels for internal bolting and also for springs, bellows,
and parts of reciprocating compressors shall comply with NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156 or
9.10. Bellows
a. Sour service - Materials for bellows shall comply with NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156 or
b. Materials
1. Austenitic stainless steels shall not be used for bellows, but material selection shall be
made from the following depending on the process conditions:
a) Alloy 825 (UNS N08825).
b) Alloy 625 (UNS N06625).
c) Alloy 400 (UNS N04400).
2. Other materials may be proposed for approval by IMSL.
9.11. Low temperature plant

Nickel steel - Carbon and low-alloy ferritic steels and weld metals containing more than 1%
nickel shall not be used for sour service. However, if low temperatures are encountered, such
steels and weld metals may be used subject to IMSL approval, providing the formation of liquid
water can be prevented at all times.
9.12. Metallic overlays

Explosively clad, roll bonded, and fusion bonded corrosion resistant overlays
a. Overlays of these types utilizing austenitic stainless steel and nickel base alloys may be
used as effective barriers in wet H2S environments provided the material is suitable for the
specific process conditions. Refer to GIS 36-107 for guidelines and requirements.
b. If such overlays are used, the backing material need not conform to this GP.
10. Fabrication
10.1. Weld procedure qualification

a. Weld procedure details
1. The procedure qualification records should identify the heat details and manufacturer
of the steel.
2. The steel used in fabrication should not exceed that used for qualification by more
than 0,02 CE.
b. IMSL approval of qualification procedures
1. Proposals for qualifying the welding procedures, particularly related to the control of
hardness, shall be submitted to IMSL before the commencement of work.
2. For ‘as-welded’ equipment, the proposed method of meeting the hardness limits shall
be submitted to IMSL for approval.
3. These shall be subject to a guarantee by the fabricator or supplier.
c. Contractor’s hardness survey after welding
1. The hardness surveys shall be carried out on agreed samples cut from approved
procedure test coupons.
Page 28 of 42
2. Test coupons shall be ground smooth and macro etched to reveal the various zones of
the weld.
3. Hardness traverses shall be made as required by NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156 or
NACE MR0103/ NACE RP0472 as appropriate.
d. Hardness results
1. Results shall comply with NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156 or NACE MR0103/ NACE
RP0472 and GP 36-10/ GIS 36-102 as appropriate.
2. Only the Vickers hardness test (5 kg or 10 kg load) shall be used for hardness traverse
measurements of welds unless otherwise agreed by IMSL.
e. IMSL approval of results - The results of the qualification tests plus welder qualifications
shall be submitted to IMSL for approval.
f. Quality assurance/control – Attention shall be given to quality assurance/control to ensure
that it is effective in ensuring that the fabrication welding is carried out in compliance with
the qualified procedure.
10.2. Heat treatment general requirements

a. Fabrication /Fabrication Repairs/ Castings
a) Heat treatment shall be carried out after fabrication, fabrication repairs and for
casting of low alloy steels, martensitic stainless steels and other materials where
unacceptable microstructures and hardness values may occur.
b) PWHT shall be in accordance with GIS 36-102.
b. Approval of heat-treatment procedure - For equipment that is to be post-weld heat treated,
the following information shall be submitted to IMSL for approval:
1. Details of the method of heating. Guidelines for heat treatment are in GIS 36-102.
2. Details of the position of thermocouples.
3. Special requirements for heat-treatment.
4. Copies of relevant heat treatment charts on completion.
10.3. PWHT for carbon steel pipework

a. PWHT requirement
1. In many cases PWHT of pipework is not required, however where PWHT is required,
the requirements of GIS 42-101, GIS 42-102, and GIS 36-102 shall be met.
2. In caustic or other service where environmental cracking may occur, PWHT shall be
carried out in accordance with GIS 36-102.
10.4. Removal of fabrication defects

No fabrication defects shall be allowed to remain on new equipment. These defects and their
repairs if allowed, shall be reported to and approved by IMSL. Documented repair procedures
shall be provided to IMSL.
10.5. NDE
a. 100% WFMT shall be carried out of the internal welds of new vessels.
10.6. PWHT for carbon steel plate

a. PWHT should be carried out for equipment made from plate for service in sour
environments.
Page 29 of 42
b. Consideration shall be given as to whether it is necessary to heat treat at higher

temperatures than code minimum values. Refer to GIS 36-102.
11. Related H2S-containing alkaline services
11.1. General requirements for equipment

a. Material
1. The specific concentration and temperature of the alkaline species shall be determined
and also the concentration of contaminants.
2. The anticipated corrosion rate shall be taken account of in establishing the corrosion
allowance on carbon steel or the need to select an alternative material.
b. Stress corrosion cracking
1. Stress relief shall be carried out where service conditions are such that stress
corrosion cracking can occur.
a) This is normally applied above some threshold service temperature that depends
on the environment.
b) The service conditions shall be clearly defined to aid this evaluation.
11.2. Sour streams containing caustic soda

a. NACE caustic soda service chart (Figure 1) - The position of the particular conditions of
temperature and caustic soda concentration shall be identified on the NACE chart to
determine if carbon steel can be used. In some cases stress relief is required and in others,
nickel based alloys need to be selected instead.
Page 30 of 42
Figure 1 - NACE caustic soda service chart
Area A Carbon steel may be used without stress relief unless there is contact with steam
tracing which could produce local temperatures above the bulk service temperature.
Area B Carbon steel shall be subject to stress relieving of the whole equipment including
welds and bends exposed to this service.
Area C Carbon steel is unsuitable in this area, and nickel based alloys shall be used instead.
Selection shall be for IMSL approval.
b. Materials for pumps - Materials for pumps in caustic service shall be subject to approval
by IMSL.
c. Other restrictions – Refer to GP 36-10 and GIS 36-102.
d. PWHT Temperature – If H2S is present and PWHT or stress relief is required, the higher
PWHT temperature/ time in GIS 36-102 shall be used.
Page 31 of 42
11.3. Sour streams containing carbonates

a. Sweetening plant
Welds and bends shall be stress relieved in sweetening plants employing a potassium
carbonate solution that is normally between 20 and 30%. Details are given in GIS 36-102.
b. Carbonates in FCCU fractionator overheads
Stress relieving shall be carried out of FCCU fractionator overheads systems to prevent
carbonate cracking. Details are given in GIS 36-102.
11.4. Sour streams containing amines

a. Applicable standard - Avoidance of environmental cracking in amine environments shall
be achieved through compliance with API RP 945 and GP 36-12.
12. Identification, stamping, and marking
12.1. Hard stamps

a. Conventional sharp ‘V’ stamping is acceptable only on the outer circumferences of
flanges.
b. Round ‘V’ stamps may be used elsewhere, providing the identities are placed on the
external surfaces of low stress areas.
c. If stamps have been inadvertently applied to high stress areas, subsequent heat treatment is
required.
12.2. Marking paints, crayons

a. Conventional paints, crayons and adhesive tapes frequently used for temporary marking
during fabrication, etc. may contain significant amounts of chloride and heavy metals.
b. Unless approved by IMSL, these marking materials shall not be used on any stainless steel,
and if used on carbon or low alloy steels they shall be removed before heat treatment (if
applied) and before shipment if heat treatment is not required.
13. Inspection
13.1. IMSL approval of procedures

Prior to the commencement of work, the fabricator or supplier shall submit proposals for
qualifying the welding procedures to IMSL, particularly related to the control of hardness.
13.2. Documentation and inspection

a. Documentation and inspection shall be provided to:
1. Prove the identities of materials of construction and
2. Establish that the correct heat treatment has been applied so that the finished product
complies fully with this GP.
b. Material certificates shall be in accordance with DIN 50049 3.1B or 3.1C as specified
(BS EN 10204), or alternative proposals as approved by IMSL.
13.3. Hardness checks

a. Types of Hardness Tests
The type of hardness tests that can be carried out vary depending on whether the item can
be sectioned and tested in the laboratory or can only be tested as a finished product.
Page 32 of 42
Sectioning and testing in the laboratory is the preferred methodology and shall be used
whenever possible.
1. Testing of Sectioned Samples
This allows determination of the HAZ hardness as well as parent metal and weld
metal. This is the case with:
a) Welding procedure qualification tests.
b) Production test plates when these are required by the fabrication specification.
c) For small items e.g. small springs, pins, etc. that cannot be hardness tested
individually, the manufacturer shall conduct tests on a random basis by selecting
components and sectioning them for laboratory hardness testing to ensure that
the product complies fully with this GP. Procedures for doing this shall be
subject to the approval of IMSL. This does not apply to austenitic stainless steels
in the solution annealed condition.
2. Testing of Welded Items that cannot be Sectioned
If the hardness can be checked without damaging the component, the manufacturer
shall conduct hardness tests on parent metal and weld metal to ensure that the
hardness requirements of this GP are met. IMSL inspectors will carry out their own
random hardness checks.
b. Hardness testing procedure/ frequency
This shall be consistent with NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156, NACE MR0103/ NACE
RP0472 and GIS 36-102 as applicable.
1. The Vickers hardness test (5 kg or 10 kg) shall be used for determining hardness of
weldments that can be sectioned. The Rockwell (ISO 6508-1) using 15 N scale can be
used as an alternative by agreement only. Other hardness tests (e.g. Rockwell C) are
considered unsuitable.
2. For weld items that cannot be sectioned the hardness test method shall be agreed with
IMSL. Brinell hardness testing is frequently used for bulk components.
13.4. Heat treatment

For corrosion resistant alloys, it shall be proved to the satisfaction of the inspector that the
specified heat treatment has been carried out correctly. The requirements of GIS 36-102 shall be
met.
Page 33 of 42
Annex A.1
(Normative)
Specification for Z-quality steel plate
A.1.1 Scope
This Annex defines the requirements to achieve enhanced resistance to wet H 2S service. It has
been found by experience that steel made with enhanced through thickness properties has
improved resistance to HIC. This type of steel is known as ‘Z’ quality steel.
A.1.2 Definition
Z-quality steel plate shall be designated as BS EN 10028-3 P275 + EN 10164, Z35.
A.1.3 Material
A.1.3.1 Standards
The plate furnished shall meet BS EN 10028-3 or equivalent steel grades.
A.1.3.2 Steel making process

a. Steels shall be made by a low sulphur and low phosphorus refining process, for example,
in an electric furnace with double de-slagging or in the basic oxygen furnace (BOF).
b. The steel shall be vacuum degassed while molten by means of a IMSL approved process.
A.1.3.3 Chemical composition

a. The following supplementary requirements shall apply:
Check Analysis %
Carbon 0,20 max.
Sulphur 0,008 max.
Phosphorus 0,025 max.
CE 0,43 max. (IIW)
b. The CE values used in the above Table shall be calculated by means of the IIW CE
formula as per 9.1.1.2.
c. The use of rare earth metals is not permitted.
A.1.4 Inspection requirements for plate
A.1.4.1 Ultrasonic examination

Material shall be ultrasonically tested in accordance with BS EN10160 quality class S1/E1 or an
equivalent approved by IMSL.
A.1.4.2 Through-thickness tensile test

a. Each plate shall comply with acceptance class Z35 of BS EN 10164 or equivalent.
b. IMSL may agree to a retest after consideration of information supplied. The through-
thickness test shall be made after the completion of all heat treatments.
c. In addition to the above, tests required by the relevant material specification shall be
carried out.
Page 34 of 42
A.1.5 Weld repair of plate
Weld repair of plate surface defects is not permitted without IMSL approval and shall be subject
to an agreed repair procedure before the work is carried out.
Page 35 of 42
Annex A.2
(Normative)
Specification for HIC resistant steel plate
A.2.1 Scope
a. This Annex defines requirements for the manufacture and testing of steel plates with
maximum resistance to HIC/SWC for pressure vessels.
b. For some less severe environments, as advised by IMSL, ‘Z’ quality plate may be
specified, in which case Annex A.1 shall apply.
A.2.2 Manufacturing
A.2.2.1 Standards
Plates furnished shall meet either BS EN 10028 Part 3, ASTM A516/A516M (normalized),
BS EN 10028 Part 6 (Q+T), or ASTM A841/A841M (TMCP) or equivalent standards.
A.2.2.2 Process
a. Steels shall be made by a low sulfur and low phosphorus refining process, for example in
an electric furnace with double de-slagging or in the basic oxygen furnace (BOF).
b. Steels shall be vacuum degassed while molten.
A.2.2.3 Heat treatment

a. Plates for vessels shall be in either the Normalized, Q+T, or TMCP condition.
b. In severe environments, maximum resistance to SOHIC shall be obtained by using either
Q+T or TMCP steel.
A.2.2.4 Chemical composition

a. The following requirements shall apply:
Check Analysis %
Carbon 0,20 max.
Sulphur 0,002 max.
Phosphorus 0,008 max.
Oxygen 0,003 max.
CE 0,43 max. (IIW)
IIW CE formula is given in 9.1.1.2

b. The specific chemical composition offered shall be subject to the agreement of IMSL.
A.2.3 Testing
A.2.3.1 Ultrasonic examination

Material shall meet BS EN 10160 quality class S1/E1 or an equivalent approved by IMSL.
A.2.3.2 HIC/SWC test

a. Tests shall be made in accordance with NACE TM0284, in the NACE TM0284 Test
Solution A (i.e. 5 wt. % NaCl + 0,5 wt. % glacial acetic acid).
b. One set of 3 specimens shall be tested from each thickness of plate from each heat.
Page 36 of 42
c. IMSL acceptance values are as follows unless otherwise agreed:

< 10% CLR (crack length ratio).
< 3% CTR (crack thickness ratio).
< 1% CSR (crack sensitivity ratio).
d. Following exposure, the test coupons shall be ultrasonically tested for evidence of
HIC/SWC in accordance with BS EN 10160 prior to sectioning.
e. Additional sections for microscopic examination shall be prepared through any suspect
locations, as approved by IMSL.
f. It should be noted that some suppliers are able to meet the following criteria:
< 5% CLR.
< 1,5% CTR.
< 0,5% CSR.
A.2.4 Weld repair of plate
Weld repair of plate surface defects is not permitted.
Page 37 of 42
Annex A.3
(Informative)
Example of domain diagrams
H2S Limits for 95 ksi Super 13Cr Alloys
(High Chloride waters – 120 000 ppm Cl-)
ACCEPTABLE
5,5
0,03 bara
pH 4,5
FURTHER ASSESSMENT REQUIRED
3,5
UNACCEPTABLE
0,001 0,01 0,1 1,0
pH2S (bara)
Domain Diagram for the Sulfide Stress Cracking Limits of

95 ksi Super 13Cr Alloys in High Chloride (120 000 ppm Cl-) Waters
(Lower Chloride waters – 1 000 ppm Cl–)
ACCEPTABLE
5,5
pH 4,5
FURTHER ASSESSMENT
REQUIRED
3,5
UNACCEPTABLE
0,001 0,01 0,1 1,0
pH2S (bara)
Domain Diagram for the Sulfide Stress Cracking Limits of

95 ksi Super 13Cr Alloys in Low Chloride (1 000 ppm Cl-) Waters
Page 38 of 42
Annex A.4
(Informative)
In-service issues
It is beyond the scope of this document to give detailed guidance on ‘In-Service Issues’ for material
operating in sour service. However, the following highlights some key issues that need to be
considered.
A.4.1 Inspection
There is a need to carry out inspection where possible in order to monitor the performance of
sour service materials. Clearly, some types of equipment lend themselves more readily to
inspection than others. The following are issues for consideration:
a. External inspection – Straight beam and angle beam ultrasonic testing and automated
ultrasonic testing are frequently used to inspect for cracking.
b. Global External Inspection – Acoustic emission can be used for external global inspection
to locate areas of active cracking, for further characterization by ultrasonic testing.
c. Internal inspection – Visual examination of the inside surfaces and weld areas is used to
identify the presence of any cracking. Other more sensitive techniques include wet
fluorescent magnetic particle inspection and alternating current field method.
d. NDE operators – Operators require appropriate training such as ASNT SNT-TC-1A or
equivalent to Level 1 and Level 2 for interpretation of data.
e. Risk based inspection (RBI) – RBI techniques can be used to prioritize inspection. This
takes account of both probability and consequence of failure.
f. Defects – Any defects that are found should be evaluated for fitness for service using
techniques such as those given in API 579. The possibility of continued crack growth shall
be considered. Remedial action may involve local grinding, weld repairs (after hydrogen
outgasing).
A.4.2 Hydrogen flux monitoring
The amount of hydrogen generated by corrosion and thereby available as diffusible atoms is
important in assessing severity of service. Monitoring of hydrogen flux is therefore beneficial,
and the following techniques are available:
a. Intrusive Finger Pressure Probes measure the build up of pressure inside a tube inserted in
the environment, following diffusion through a membrane.
b. Patch Probes that measure hydrogen atoms diffusing through the equipment by the build
up of pressure in the cavity between a patch and the equipment.
c. An Electrochemical Cell involves diffusion of hydrogen through a metallic palladium
membrane, which forms the partition of a two-compartment cell. Emergent hydrogen
atoms are oxidized and are measured by a current flow in the cell.
d. Beta foil is a thin foil glued to the outside of the equipment and a vacuum is drawn
between the foil and the equipment. As hydrogen diffuses into this zone the pressure
increases and is monitored.
e. The Hydrosteel 6 000 uses a flexible metallic plate collector with a spiral pathway on the
surface to sweep up any hydrogen diffusing out of the vessel/pipe of interest, in a flow of
air, into the measuring equipment.
Page 39 of 42
A.4.3 Mitigating methods
Several different remedial measures have been used in situations where hydrogen induced
cracking has been a problem. These include:
a. Improved materials have been applied with greater resistance to hydrogen induced
cracking.
b. Metal lining using a stainless steel type of liner has been used and this is produced either
by roll bonding or by weld overlaying.
c. Coatings have also been used, which minimizes corrosion and hydrogen flux. However,
attention needs to be given to the quality of the base material, in case of breakdown of the
coating at some stage.
d. The surface preparation that is used before carrying out internal inspection leaves the metal
surface in a condition where a high hydrogen flux can occur on re-commissioning. Some
temporary protection for the surface is desirable to minimize the hydrogen flux until a
protective sulfide film can form.
Page 40 of 42
Bibliography
NACE International (NACE)

[1] TM0177 Laboratory Testing of Metals for Resistance to Sulfide Stress Cracking and Stress
Corrosion Cracking in H2S Environments.
[2] TM0103-2003 Laboratory Test procedures for Evaluation of SOHIC Resistance of Plate Steels
Used in Wet H2S Service.
[3] RP0296-2000 Guidelines for Detection and Repair and Mitigation of Cracking of Existing
Petroleum Refining Pressure Vessels in Wet H2S Service.
[4] 8X194 Materials & Fabrication Practices to be used in Wet H2S Refinery environments.
[5] 8X294 Review of Published Literature on Wet H2S Cracking of Steels through 1989.
[6] NACE 1981 Book, H2S Corrosion in Oil and Gas Production - A Compilation of Classic Papers Edited
by R.N.Tuttle and R.D.Kane.
[7] NACE Paper 01520 Corrosion 2001, Material Damage Implications of post weld heat treating H2
blisters in carbon steel. Jorge.L.Hau et al.
[8] NACE Paper #206 1990Carbonate Stress Corrosion Cracking of Carbon Steel in Refinery FCC Main
Fractionator Overhead Systems, J.H.Kmetz and D.J.Truax.
[9] NACE Paper 04480 Corrosion 2004, Development of Pressure Vessel Steels with Improved SOHIC
resistance, L. Coudreuse, V.Ligier, P.Bourges & A.Gingell.
[10] NACE Paper 01105 Corrosion 2001, Application of Normalized and Quench and Tempered Pressure
Vessel Steels as a function of Sour Service Severity, L.Coudreuse, C.Zmudzinski, P.Bocquet,
A.Gingell & A.Cheviet.
[11] NACE Paper 02554 Corrosion 2003, SOHIC Resistance of C-Mn Plate Steels Used in Refinery
service, M.S.Cayard, R.D.Kane & R.J.Horvath.
American Petroleum Institute (API)

[12] API Publication 939, Research Report on Characterization and Monitoring of Cracking in Wet H2S
Service.
[13] API Division of Refining Vol 33 [III] 1953

Prevention of Hydrogen Attack on Steel in Refinery Equipment, W.A.Bonner, H.D.Burnham,
J.J.Conradi and T.Skei.
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)

[14] ASTM E1268 Standard Practice for Assessing the Degree of Banding or Orientation of
Microstructures.
Engineering Equipment and Materials User Association (EEMUA)

[15] EEMUA 196 A Working Guide for Carbon Steel Equipment in Wet H2S Service.
[16] EEMUA 194 Guidelines for Materials Selection and Corrosion Control for Subsea Oil and Gas
Production Equipment.
Page 41 of 42
Pressure Vessel research Council (PVRC)

[17] PVRC Workshop Managing Integrity of Equipment in Wet H2S Service - October 10-12, 2001.
European Federation of Corrosion (EFC)

[18] EFC Publication 16 Guidelines on Materials Requirements for Carbon and Low Alloy Steels for
H2S Containing Environments in Oil and Gas Production 1995.
IMSL
[19] GIS 02-201 Specification for OCTG Seamless Casing and Tubing.
[20] GIS 02-204 Specification for Sour Service Grade C110 and C125 Low Alloy Steel OCTG
Seamless Pipe.
[21] Report S/UTG/023/00 Guidelines for Selecting Downhole Tubular Materials for Oil & Gas
Production Wells: J. W. Martin, D. Harrop and W. Hedges.
[22] Report S/EPT/035/05, Best Practice for Selection of Materials for Downhole Equipment (Revision 2)
Report No S/EPT/035/05 J W Martin, T N Evans, A J Leonard and S Groves.
[23] Report BPA-D-003 Casing Materials Selection & Corrosion Guidelines: J. W. Martin: IMS Amoco
Report No BPA-D-003 September 1999.
Page 42 of 42

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Document No.

Guidance on Practice for

INEOS Manufacturing Scotland Limited

8.2. Confirmation of SSC resistance (NACE MR0103/ NACE RP0472).............................24

A.1.4.1 Ultrasonic examination............................................................................................40

Figure 1 - NACE caustic soda service chart.....................................................................................37

Cracking susceptibility and avoidance

Oil flow line HIC failure of carbon steel pipe - 1972

Downhole tubular string SSC failure of Alloyed 13% Cr steel - 2001

h. Casing was repaired with an expandable solid casing patch.

Failure by SSC/SOHIC of carbon steel pressure vessel (Unocal) - 1984

General outline of a sour service plan

a. Initial materials selection which complies with either of the following:

c. SSC resistance of materials.

This GP provides guidance as follows:

a. Requirements are given to avoid environmental cracking of materials to be used for

American Petroleum Institute (API)

American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)

American Society for Non-destructive Testing (ASNT)

American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)

British Standards Institute (BSI)

International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO)

NACE International (NACE)

3. Terms and definitions

pH2S (partial pressure of H2S)

4. Symbols and abbreviations

ASCC Alkaline stress corrosion cracking

CLR Crack length ratio

CSR Crack sensitivity ratio

CTR Crack thickness ratio

ERW Electric Resistance Welded

FPB Four point bend

GHSC Galvanically induced hydrogen stress cracking

HAZ Heat affected zone

HIC Hydrogen-induced cracking

HSC Hydrogen stress cracking

IIW International Institute of Welding

PWHT Post weld heat treatment

SCC Stress corrosion cracking

SOHIC Stress-oriented hydrogen-induced cracking

SSC Sulfide stress cracking

SWC Stepwise cracking

SZC Soft zone cracking

TMCP Thermo mechanical control process

5. Factors affecting cracking

5.1. General materials factors

5.2. General environmental factors

5.3. Factors affecting SSC

5.4. Factors affecting SZC

5.5. Factors affecting GHSC

5.6. Factors affecting HIC/SWC and blistering

5.7. Factors affecting SOHIC

5.8. Factors affecting SCC

6. Distinction between Upstream (oil and gas) and Downstream (refining)

6.1. Different environments for Upstream and Downstream

6.2. Upstream (oil and gas) NACE MR0175/ ISO 15156

1. Qualify the suitability of materials by any of the following:

6.3. Downstream (refining) NACE MR0103

7. Upstream requirements (oil and gas)

7.1.2. SSC resistance