At TCR Engineering, we are committed to advancing materials testing with precision and expertise. One of the critical tests conducted at our materials testing lab is the Sustained Load Test (SLT) for electroplated materials, following the rigorous guidelines of the API 20E standard. This test is pivotal in identifying and mitigating the risk of hydrogen embrittlement, ensuring the reliability and safety of critical components.
Overview of the Hydrogen Embrittlement Test
The Hydrogen Embrittlement Test, as per ASTM F519 (NABL accredited), evaluates the susceptibility of electroplated materials to failure under sustained loading. This test is essential for components exposed to hydrogen-rich environments, where the material's integrity could be compromised over time due to hydrogen ingress.
Test Procedure
Specimen Preparation:
The preparation and plating/coating of the specimen are under the customer’s scope.
Required specimen dimensions:
Gauge Diameter: 6.35 mm with notch
Reduced Length: 50 mm
Grip Area: M12 thread
Total Length: 150 mm
Assembly:
A Type 1a.1 tensile specimen is assembled with a Type 1b stress ring to apply the specified load.
Load Application and Duration:
The specimen is subjected to 75% of its ultimate tensile strength (UTS).
The test period is set for 200 hours or more based on customer spec
Acceptance Criteria:
As per the API 20E standard, the specimen must demonstrate no failure after 200 hours under sustained load conditions.
Additional Testing and Data Requirements
Customers are requested to provide the following information along with the sample:
Notched Fracture Strength (NFS) in MPa (N/mm²).
Cross-sectional Area at the notch of each specimen.
In cases where testing beyond the specified 200-hour period is required, additional charges will apply.
Root Cause Analysis and Failure Investigation
If a specimen fails during the test, TCR Engineering offers a comprehensive root cause failure analysis to determine the metallurgical and material-related factors contributing to the failure. This service is available at an extra cost and includes detailed evaluations, including:
Microscopic analysis
Fractographic studies
Metallurgical investigations
Applications of the Hydrogen Embrittlement Test
This test is critical for industries requiring high-performance materials, such as:
Aerospace
Oil & Gas
Automotive
Defense
By adhering to stringent testing standards like API 20E and ASTM F519, TCR Engineering ensures the reliability and durability of materials used in these demanding sectors.
Why Choose TCR Engineering?
With decades of expertise in materials testing and a state-of-the-art lab, TCR Engineering is your trusted partner for ensuring material performance and safety. Our NABL-accredited testing processes, combined with a customer-focused approach, guarantee accurate and reliable results.
To learn more about our Hydrogen Embrittlement Testing services or to discuss your specific requirements, please contact us today.