Abstract
Duplex stainless steels are widely used in subsea petroleum production installation. In many instances such steels are a robust solution to the design and manufacturing challenges. However, a number of failures have occurred, which were attributed to Hydrogen Induced Stress Cracking (HISC). Several failure investigations and extensive testing have been carried out over the last 5–10 years, and a design guideline has been established; DNV-RP-F112.
The article presents HISC as a failure mode, with a brief summary of the necessary conditions and failure characteristics. The testing and research effort into HISC is described. Finally DNV-RP-F112 “Design of Duplex Stainless Steel Subsea Equipment Exposed to Cathodic Protection” is introduced and the main features are outlined.