Polythionic acid SCC

Susceptible materials: Environmental conditions: Description

Austenitic stainless steels, e.g. Type 300-series Steel in sensitised and stressed condition; sulphides

Polythionic acids (i.e. H2SxO6 where x=2-5, e.g. sulphurous acid), are formed by the decomposition of sulphides in the presence of oxygen and water, e.g. shutdown equipment that carry H 2S/H2 at elevated temperature. A requirement for Polythionic Acid Stress Corrosion Cracking (PASCC) is that a stainless steel is in a sensitised and stressed condition (either residual or applied). Sensitisation describes a steel that has formed chromium carbides along the grain boundaries, producing adjacent chromium-depleted regions that are susceptible to corrosion. This occurs after long-term service within the 370 - 815C temperature range, dependent on the grade and prior thermomechanical history. In itself, sensitisation does not affect mechanical properties. Methods of avoidance During shutdowns, displace process fluids with flushing oil followed by a nitrogen purge; Use low carbon, e.g. Type 316L, or stabilised stainless steel grades, e.g. Type 347 with Nb; Alloy 801 for heaters in desulphurization units, Alloy 800 for feed/effluent exchangers; and Solution anneal to dissolve carbides, e.g. 1100 C, followed by a water quench. Further reading NACE RP0170-93: "Protection of austenitic stainless steels and other austenitic alloys from polythionic acid stress corrosion cracking during shutdown of refinery equipment", National Association of Corrosion Engineers, Houston, 1993