How selection offsets sulfide corrosion

Steels in Girdler heavy water plants are generally required to withstand wet hydrogen sulfide or its aqueous solution. The reasons for selecting various grades for various locations are explained. Information on welding methods is given, and the codes applicable are listed. Carbon steel can be used only where fluid velocity is low. Sections which fail completely if pitted are made of AISI 316 stainless steel. Diaphragms and other very thin parts located in the stagnant fluid are made of Inconel 625. Where solution-annealing of stainless steels at 1000 deg C after welding is not feasible, low-carbon grades (304L, 316L) are used. Some failures are depicted. All castings are completely radiographically examined. (N.D.H.)