New constructional steel for pressure vessels with a high resistance to hydrogen-induced cracking (HIC)

Currently, natural gas with 25 % share of fossil fuels is a very important energy resource. Many gas reserves contain natural gas with a proportion of up to 35 % of hydrogen sulphide (H2S), which can cause hydrogen-induced cracking (HIC).
This paper discusses the development, production and properties of a new steel grade X-COR (eXtra CORosionresistant) for welded pressure vessels, which fit the actual requirements according different standards for pressure vessel steels with up to 355 MPa minimum yield strength very well. The outstanding HIC-resistance is achieved in normalized and stress relieved condition up to a plate thickness of 50 mm. Additionally, important aspects regarding processing behaviour and application of X-COR are highlighted.