Materials and Corrosion For Sour Service

Materials and Corrosion for Sour
Service
MP 55-P-19
July 1998
Scope
This Mobil Engineering Practice (MEP) shall be used for the design of sour service materials for
onshore and offshore production and processing facilities.
This MEP covers general requirements for sour service materials used in upstream surface facilities,
from the wellhead wing valve to sales. These include onshore and offshore facilities as follows:
Wellsites
Production separation systems
Pipelines
Compressor stations
Gas processing plants
Oil batteries
Injection systems
All Business Sectors
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Materials and Corrosion for Sour Service
July 1998
Table of Contents
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1. References
The following publications form a part of this Practice. Unless otherwise specified herein, use the
latest edition.
1.1.
MEPSMobil Engineering Practices
MP 03-P-02
Pressure Casting Inspection
MP 11-P-01
Fired Heaters - Design and Fabrication
MP 12-P-01
Pressure Vessels-Design & Fabrication
MP 13-P-10
Shell & Tube Heat Exchangers-Design & Construction
MP 13-P-15
Air-Cooled Heat Exchangers-Design & Construction
MP 16-P-01
Piping-General Design
MP 16-P-30A
Piping - Materials and Service Classifications (M&R)
MP 16-P-40
Piping-Fabrication, Erection, Inspection, & Testing
MP 20-P-01
Offshore Pipeline Design
MP 20-P-02
Line Pipe and Bend Material
MP 32-P-01
General Requirements for Instrumentation
MP 35-P-01
Painting - General Requirements
MP 35-P-81
Painting - Internal Coatings - Tanks, Vessels, Piping and Tubulars
MP 57-P-02
Pressure Containing Equipment - Welding & Inspection
1.2.
Mobil Tutorials
EPT 03-T-09
Acid Gas Removal (E&P)
EPT 08-T-03
Materials for Sour Service
1.3.
APIAmerican Petroleum Institute
API STD 661
Air-Cooled Heat Exchangers for General Refinery Service Third Edition
API STD 1104
Welding of Pipelines and Related Facilities Eighteenth Edition
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1.4.
July 1998
ASMEAmerican Society of Mechanical Engineers
ASME B31.3
Process Piping
ASME B31.4
Liquid Transportation Systems for Hydrocarbons, Liquid Petroleum Gas,

Anhydrous Ammonia, and Alcohols
ASME B31.8
Gas Transmission and Distribution Piping Systems
ASME SEC IIA
ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section II: MaterialsPart A:

Ferrous Material Specifications
ASME SEC VIII
1995 Boiler & Pressure Vessel Code 1996 Addenda: Pressure Vessels
1.5.
ASTMAmerican Society for Testing and Materials
ASTM
A105/A105M
Standard Specification for Carbon Steel Forgings for Piping Applications
ASTM A106
Standard Specification for Seamless Carbon Steel Pipe for HighTemperature Service
ASTM
A216/A216M
Standard Specification for Steel Castings, Carbon, Suitable for Fusion

Welding, for High-Temperature Service
ASTM
A234/A234M REV
A
Standard Specification for Piping Fittings of Wrought Carbon Steel and

Alloy Steel for Moderate and High Temperature Service
ASTM
A352/A352M
Standard Specification for Steel Castings, Ferritic and Martensitic, for

Pressure-Containing Parts, Suitable for Low-Temperature Service
ASTM A370 REV

A
Standard Test Methods and Definitions for Mechanical Testing of Steel

Products
ASTM
A420/A420M
Standard Specification for Piping Fittings of Wrought Carbon Steel and

Alloy Steel for Low-Temperature Service
ASTM
A516/A516M
Standard Specification for Pressure Vessel Plates, Carbon Steel, for

Moderate - and Lower-Temperature Service R(1996)
ASTM
A578/A578M
Standard Specification for Straight-Beam Ultrasonic Examination of Plain

and Clad Steel Plates for Special Applications
ASTM
A703/A703M REV
A
Standard Specification for Steel Castings, General Requirements, for

Pressure-Containing Parts
ASTM A788
Standard Specification for Steel Forgings, General Requirements
ASTM E44
Standard Definitions of Terms Relating to Heat Treatments of Metal
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ASTM E140
1.6.
July 1998
Standard Hardness Conversion Tables for Metals, (Relationship Among

Brinell Hardness, Vickers Hardness, Rockwell Hardness, Rockwell
Superficial Hardness, Knoop Hardness, and Sclerscope Hardness)
NACENational Association of Corrosion Engineers
NACE MR0175
Sulfide Stress Cracking Resistant Metallic Materials for Oilfield Equipment
NACE TM0177
Laboratory Testing of Metals for Resistance to Specific Forms of

Environmental Cracking in H2S Environments Errata Sheet
NACE TM0284
Evaluation of Pipeline and Pressure Vessel Steels for Resistance to

Hydrogen-Induced Cracking
2. General
The design of sour service materials for onshore and offshore production and processing facilities
shall be in accordance with requirements of this MEP, unless superceded by more stringent local
regulations.
The Practice defines sour service for gas and multiphase systems. Guidance is also presented here on
material aspects that help minimize the risk of failures due to various forms of hydrogen damage,
such as:
Sulfide stress cracking (SSC)
Hydrogen induced cracking (HIC)
Stress-oriented, hydrogen induced cracking (SOHIC)
This Practice also provides design, fabrication and inspection guidance, to ensure that the materials
supplied are in a condition that minimizes the risk of damage from hydrogen.
2.1.
Criticality of Service
This Practice provides guidance on the criticality of the service for which a particular facility is being
designed. The criticality of the service depends not only on the severity of the production fluids, but
also on the consequences of failure.
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2.2.
July 1998
Selection of Materials
The selection of materials for use in sour service depends on many factors in addition to the level of
H2S.
Other failure modes may be important, depending on the specific production condition. This Practice,
however, does not specifically address other failure modes that may be experienced in facilities as a
result of other aggressive species. When appropriate, cautionary comments are provided with respect
to other failure modes. Nevertheless, materials shall be selected in consultation with a material
specialist and shall take account of the effects of possible failure modes, in addition to those resulting
from H2S.
3. Sour Environments
3.1.
Sour Gas Service

Materials shall be selected in accordance with this Practice if the gas being handled is at a total
pressure of 448 kPaa (65 psia) or greater and if the partial pressure of H2S in the gas is greater
than 345 kPaa (0.05 psia). Figure 1 (or 2) provides a convenient method for determining
whether the partial pressure of H2S in a sour environment exceeds 345 kPaa (0.05 psia).
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Figure 1: Sour Gas Systems (Customary Units)
Figure 2: Sour Gas Systems (Metric Units)

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3.2.
July 1998
Sour Multiphase Service

Sour multiphase fluids are fluids containing oil, gas and water in any combination when
any one of the following criteria are met (Figures 3 and 4):
0.0005 percent0.02 mol percent H2S in the gas and the partial pressure of
H2S >345 kPaa (0.05 psia)
20.02 percent5 mol percent H2S in the gas and a total pressure >1827 kPaa
(265 psia)
psia)
515 mol percent H2S in the gas and the partial pressure of H 2S >69 kPaa (10
>15 mol percent H2S in the gas phase
Figure 3: Sour Multiphase Systems (Customary Units)
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Figure 4: Sour Multiphase Systems (Metric Units)

Sour multiphase service applies only to production equipment containing commingled or
emulsified oil, gas and water. In production equipment where phase separation occurs
(e.g., separator, treater, FWKO, etc.), the environment is defined as sour service, in
accordance with Section 3.1.
For pressure equipment, when process conditions are such that a wet sour gas
environment exists in one area but a "non-sour" multiphase system exists in another area,
the equipment shall be suitable for the more severe condition.
3.3.
Sour Aqueous Phase

Sometimes the dissolved H2S, expressed as ppm by weight, in an aqueous phase, becomes
the criterion for sour service. For example, where the partial pressures of H 2S are not
readily available, Mobil uses 50 ppm by weight H 2S in aqueous phase, as a minimum, for
defining sour service.
3.4.
Criticality of Sour Service

Two categories of service are specified where the severity of service is used to define the
selection of materials, design, fabrication and inspection requirements.
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The classification of severity depends on the various factors associated with the
probability and consequences of failure, plus local considerations and economic impact.
3.4.1.
Risk Assignment Factors

Loss Prevention specialists provide guidance on the consequences of a
failure, while material specialists give guidance on the likelihood of a failure.
Risk assessments shall be made in consultation with these specialists to
ensure optimum performance.
Factors associated with the assignment of risk are as follows.
3.4.1.1.
Critical Sour Service
High pressure (> 448 kPaa (65 psia) for gas systems and >1827 kPaa
(265 psia) for sour oil and multiphase systems)
High H2S partial pressure or high ppm in liquid
High environmental sensitivity
Threat to people
High impact on production losses
Long field life
3.4.1.2.
Non-Critical Sour Service
Low pressure (< 448 kPaa (65 psia) for gas systems and < 1827 kPaa
(265 psia) for sour oil and multiphase systems)
3.4.2.
Low H2S partial pressure or low ppm in liquid
Low environmental sensitivity
Remote from personnel
Low impact on production losses
Short field life
Examples of Sour Service Conditions

Following are examples of conditions that are typical of critical and noncritical sour service. The two examples presented are at the extremes of
service risk. Individual cases shall be reviewed to establish their criticality
and how the material requirements shall be specified.
3.4.2.1.
Critical Service Conditions
Under critical service conditions, every precaution is taken to avoid a failure.
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Production fluids are very corrosive, are at high pressure and have
high H2S content.
The facility is close to habitation in an environmentally sensitive
area and a production shutdown would be environmentally detrimental.
3.4.2.2.
Non-critical Service Conditions
Under non-critical service conditions, less stringent requirements are in

effect for the materials of construction without compromising safety.
Production fluids are only mildly corrosive; the H2S content and
pressure are low.
The facility is far from habitation and a production shutdown would
not be detrimental.
3.5.
Acronyms
The following abbreviations and acronyms are used in this MEP and also supplement
those contained in NACE MR0175. Additional definitions related to heat treatment may
be found in ASTM E44.
BW
Butt Welding
CE
Carbon Equivalent
CML
Cement Mortar Lined (Pipe and Piping Components)
CRA
Corrosion Resistant Alloy
CRA-S
CRA-Solid
CRA-C
CRA-Clad, where CRA cladding is metallurgically bonded to a

steel substrate
CRA-H
CRA-HIP, where CRA powder is applied by Hot Isostatic

Pressing (HIP)
CRA-L
CRA-Lined, where CRA liner is fitted to a steel substrate. It is

not metallurgically bonded to steel but may be a very tight
shrink fit, depending on the process of installation.
CRA-O
CRA-Overlayed, where CRA is applied by fusion welding and is

metallurgically bonded to the substrate
CRA-T
CRA-Thermally Sprayed, where a thin layer of CRA is applied

by thermal spraying; it may or may not be metallurgically
bonded
CS
Carbon Steel
ERW
Electric Resistance Welded
FBE
Fusion Bond Epoxy (coating)
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FRP
Fiber Reinforced Plastic (typically fiberglass)
HAZ
Heat Affected Zone of Weldment
HF
Hard Faced (e.g., Satellite)
HIC
Hydrogen Induced Cracking
IIW
International Institute of Welding
IPC
Internally Plastic Coated (Pipe & Fittings)
LAS
Low Alloy Steel
MT
Magnetic Particle Testing (also known by MPI)
Pcm
Parameter of Crack Measurement
PEL
Polyethylene Lined
PQR
Procedure Qualification Report for Weldment
PT
Liquid Penetrant Testing (also known by LPI)
PWHT
Postweld Heat Treatment
RT
Radiographic Testing
SCC
Stress Corrosion Cracking
SMYS
Specified Minimum Yield Strength
SOHIC
Stress-Oriented Hydrogen-Induced Cracking
SOL
Sockolet
SSC
Sulfide Stress Cracking
SW
Socket Welding
TOL
Threadolet
UT
Ultrasonic Testing
WC
Tungsten Carbide
WFMT
Wet Fluorescent Magnetic Particle Testing
WOL
Weldolet
July 1998
4. Ferrous Metals
4.1.
Carbon and Low Alloy Steels

4.1.1.
Carbon Steels
Carbon steels shall be in accordance with the attached appendices.

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When required by equipment tables later in this Practice, carbon steel

plate shall meet the requirements of Appendix A, B or C, as applicable.
4.1.2.
Carbon Equivalent (CE)

Carbon equivalent is a measure of the hardenability of carbon and low alloy
steels as a result of welding. The CE is based on the content of specific
elements in the parent metal. The IIW formula for CE is:
CE =
Cr Mo V Ni Cu
Mn
+
+
5
15
6
Where the elements are in weight percents
4.1.3.
Cracking Parameter (Pcm)

Very low carbon steels (< 0.10 weight percent carbon) are usually microalloyed in order to achieve desired strength. In those cases, CE is not a good
measure of hardenability and the use of a cracking parameter (P cm) is
recommended instead.
Pcm = C +
Mn Cu Cr Ni Mo
Si
+
+
+
+ 5B
30
60
15
20
Where the elements are in weight percents
4.1.4.
Cold Formed Bends

All cold formed bends in carbon steel, including U-tubes for heat exchangers
and fired heaters, shall be stress-relieved at a minimum temperature of 610C
(1130F) or fully normalized, if the as-bent hardness exceeds 225 HB or if
the plastic strain used during bending exceeds 5 percent.
4.2.
Micro-Alloyed Steels
4.2.1.
Vanadium, Niobium and Titanium Alloyed Ferritic

Steels
For vanadium, niobium and titanium alloyed ferritic steels, the vanadium
content shall not exceed 0.05 percent, the niobium 0.05 percent, the titanium
0.02 percent and their combined content shall not exceed 0.10 percent.
When these elements are used for alloying, the soluble aluminum to nitrogen
ratio shall not be less than 2:1, with the nitrogen less than 0.015 percent.
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4.2.2.
July 1998
Pipeline Steels
Micro-alloyed steels used in the manufacture of line pipe shall meet the
requirements of the appropriate sections of MP 20-P-02.
4.3.
Free Machining Steels

Free machining steels, including all free machining grades of stainless steels, shall not be
used.
4.4.
Cast Iron
Non-ductile forms of cast iron shall not be used for pressure containing parts in sour
service.
4.5.
Austenitic Stainless Steels

In addition to the limitations outlined in NACE MR0175, the 300 series stainless steels,
including their low carbon grades, shall not be used in services where the temperature and
chloride concentration fall within the stress-cracking region defined by Figure 5. Gaskets
are exempted from this requirement for operating temperatures of 120C (250F) or less.
Socket welds or threaded connections that present a crevice on the process side shall be
avoided.
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Figure 5: Chloride Stress Cracking Region for Austenitic TP 304 & TP 316
Stainless Steel
4.6.
Ferritic Stainless Steels

Ferritic stainless steels that meet the requirements of NACE MR0175 are acceptable.
However, special considerations apply to their selection, manufacture and use. Prior to
purchase or use of these materials, a Mobil material specialist shall be consulted.
4.7.
Martensitic Stainless Steels

Martensitic stainless steels that meet the requirements of NACE MR0175 are usually
acceptable. However, special consideration applies to the selection, manufacture, heat
treatment and use of these alloys. Consequently, a Mobil material specialist shall be
consulted prior to their use.
4.8.
Precipitation Hardening Stainless Steels

Precipitation hardening stainless steels that meet the requirements of NACE MR0175 are
generally acceptable. However, special consideration applies to the selection,
manufacture, heat treatment and use of these alloys. Consequently, a Mobil material
specialist shall likewise be consulted prior to their use.
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4.9.
July 1998
Duplex Stainless Steel

Duplex stainless steels that meet the requirements of NACE MR0175 are generally
acceptable. However, duplex stainless steels are fairly new and knowledge about their use
changes rapidly. A Mobil material specialist shall be consulted before selection and
establishment of fabrication techniques regarding these materials.
5. Non-Ferrous Metals
The non-ferrous metals shown in NACE MR0175 are acceptable. Any applicable Mobil modification
for these materials is listed below.
5.1.
Nickel-Copper Alloys
Nickel-copper alloys shown in NACE MR0175 are acceptable.
Nickel-copper alloys such as UNS N04400 (Monel 400) and N04405 (Monel R405) in
sour service shall be limited to temperatures less than 150C (300F).
5.2.
Other Nickel-Base Alloys

Many nickel-chromium, nickel-iron-chromium and nickel-iron-chromium-molybdenum
alloys are acceptable for sour service according to NACE MR0175. Selection of these
alloys is suggested when chlorides are present and SCC of the 300 series stainless steels is
likely to occur. Heat treatment and hardness requirements of NACE MR0175 shall be
strictly adhered to in order to prevent cracking in sour service, due to hydrogen absorption
by galvanic coupling and/or corrosion.
5.3.
Copper Alloys
Copper-nickel alloys, such as UNS C70600 (90/10 Cu/Ni) and UNS C71500 (70/30
Cu/Ni) alloys, are acceptable under NACE MR0175; however, they have high corrosion
rates in sour service.
Copper alloys such as brass and bronze shall not be used in process streams containing
amines, ammonia or H2S, nor in applications where atmospheric exposure to H2S occurs.
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5.4.
July 1998
Lead and Lead Alloys

Lead, lead alloys and lead-bearing (free machining) alloys shall not be used in sour
service.
5.5.
Dissimilar Metals and Galvanic Coupling

Coupling of dissimilar metals in a corrosive environment might lead to problems of
crevice corrosion, hydrogen charging or pitting attack. With dissimilar metals coupled,
the more anodic metal may suffer crevice corrosion and/or pitting. In some cases, the
more anodic metal might corrode and cause hydrogen charging of the more cathodic
(corrosion resistant) metal. This charging may lead to cracking of the more resistant
metal. Coupling of dissimilar metals is only a problem when the more anodic metal, by
itself, will corrode in a specific environment.
6. Non-Metallic Materials
6.1.
Elastomers
The equipment supplier shall be consulted with respect to elastomer recommendations
(and supporting test data and service experience) for the project service conditions. These
service conditions need to be clearly identified for this selection process.
Table 1 lists service and temperature ranges for several elastomers commonly used as Orings and other components.
Table 1: Service and Temperature Ranges for Common Elastomers

Nitrile
Viton
(Buna-N) (FMK)
(Note 6)
(Note 5)
Teflon
(PTFE)
(Note 4)
Ethylene
Propylene
(EPDM)
Aflas
Kalrez
-20 to
120
(Note 2)
-20 to
150
N.R.
N.R.
-20 to
200
-20 to 260
0 to 250
(Note 2)
0 to 300
N.R.
N.R.
0 to 400
0 to 500
N.R.
-20 to
150
-20 to
150
N.R.
-20 to
200
-20 to 260
N.R.
0 to 300
0 to 300
N.R.
0 to 400
0 to 500
(Note 1)
H2S
CO2
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Amines &
Inhibitors
July 1998
Teflon
(PTFE)
(Note 4)
Ethylene
Propylene
(EPDM)
Aflas
Kalrez
(Note 1)
Nitrile
Viton
(Buna-N) (FMK)
(Note 6)
(Note 5)
-20 to 95
-20 to 95
N.R.
-20 to 150
-20 to
200
-20 to 260
0 to 200
0 to 200
N.R.
0 to 300
(Note 3)
0 to 400
0 to 500
NOTES:
1. Temperature conversions used above are approximate.
2. Acceptable when partial pressure of H 2S < 6.9 kPaa (1 psia).
3. MEA/DEA only.
4. Plastic flow under shearing stress shall be considered.
5. Viton may show embrittlement due to H2S induced vulcanization effects.
6. Other synthetic rubbers like Neoprene may be acceptable, subject to agreement with the Mobil
material specialist.
6.2.
Fiber Reinforced Plastic

Fiber reinforced plastic (FRP) may be used for some sour water service. However, the
variety of FRPs and their various conditions warrant careful consideration prior to their
use. Their low fire resistance may preclude use in some locations.
6.3.
Gaskets
Gasket materials shall be selected in accordance with MP 16-P-30A.
6.4.
Packing
Packing materials shall be selected in accordance with piping, valve and equipment
guides.
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7. Bolting
7.1.
Exposed Bolting
"Exposed bolting" under NACE MR0175 is "Bolting that is exposed to the sour
environment or that is buried, insulated, equipped with flange protectors or otherwise
denied direct atmospheric exposure "
Where a facility has both sour and non-sour production equipment, all process bolts and
nuts are considered "Exposed Bolting" under NACE MR0175.
Where a facility requires low temperature bolts and nuts, all process bolts and nuts are
considered low temperature service.
Table 2 outlines the appropriate material specification.
Table 2: Material Specifications for Selection of Exposed Bolting

Material and Service
Bolting Specification
Nut Specification
Standard temperature,
critical or non-critical sour
service (Notes 1 and 2)
A193/A193M Gr.B7M
A194/A194M Gr.2HM
Low temperature, critical

or non-critical sour service
(Notes 1 and 2)
A320/A320M Gr.L7M
A194/A194M Gr.7M
Carbon Steel
NOTES:
1. Standard temperature service refers to operation at temperatures from 120C (250F) to 29C (20F). Low temperature service refers to operation at temperatures in the range of 45C (-50F)
to 29C (-20F). When selecting the operating temperature, consideration shall be given to code
requirements, local climatic conditions and process conditions, including the effects of upset,
startup and shutdown.
2. When pressure/temperature ratings cannot be achieved using B7M or L7M bolting, high alloy,
precipitation hardenable, high strength bolting shall be used. Special ordering instructions may
be necessary to satisfy the strength requirements of the equipment standard and the heat treatment
and hardness requirements of NACE MR0175. Consult your materials specialist.
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8. Platings and Coatings

8.1.
Metallic Coatings
Metallic coatings (electroplated, electrolyses and thermal spray) shall not be allowed as a
stress corrosion cracking control method. Where plating is used for corrosion or wear
resistance, the material upon which the plating is deposited (substrate) shall conform to
this Practice. Cadmium and galvanized zinc plating is unsuitable for hydrogen sulfide
service, due to rapid corrosion.
8.2.
Non-Metallic Coatings
In non-critical sour service applications at lower operating temperatures, under 93C
(200F), the use of non-metallic coatings, such as epoxies or phenolics, may be
considered. The coating specified shall be compatible with the process conditions. The
installation and QA/QC requirements shall be individually specified for the application
and be in accordance with MP 35-P-81.
9. Fabrication
9.1.
Welding
9.1.1.
General
These guidelines supplement MP 57-P-02 for sour service.
9.1.2.
Set-on Nozzles
Set-on nozzles with inside diameters equal to the diameter in a vessel or pipe
wall are limited to a maximum diameter of 100 mm (4 in). The weld
attaching the nozzle to the vessel shall penetrate completely through the
nozzle neck and may be either single or double welded.
9.1.3.
Backwelding
Backwelding to correct root bead welding defects or misalignment on the
inside (process side) of pipe is not permitted.
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9.1.4.
July 1998
Weld Repair of Carbon and Low Alloy Steel

Castings
Weld repair of carbon and low alloy steel castings shall be minimized. If
weld repairs are necessary, irrespective of size, all carbon and low alloy steel
castings shall be PWHT to reduce residual stress and to reduce the hardness
of the casting below 22 HRC.
9.2.
Postweld Heat Treatment (PWHT)

9.2.1.
Materials Requiring PWHT

PWHT is required for some carbon steels, low alloy steels, martensitic steels
and other transformation hardenable metallic materials exposed to higher
temperatures, such as experienced in welding or air-arc gouging.
9.2.2.
Materials Not Requiring PWHT

1. Materials not requiring PWHT are low carbon seamless pipes with the
following conditions:
a) Maximum carbon content of 0.20 percent.
b) CE
0.43.
c) SMYS <360,000 kPa (52,000 psi).

d) Weld procedure qualification shall be carried out with maximum
hardness in the survey of 248 HV10.
2. PWHT is only required in high risk, severe sour service.
9.2.3.
Temperature/Times Necessary for PWHT

1. The heat treatment temperatures for the respective materials are given in
Table 3. The holding time at temperature shall be a minimum of 1 hour
per 25 mm (1 in) of thickness, with a minimum time of 1 hour. The
actual heat treatment time and temperature to ensure that the acceptable
hardness limit is met will depend on the actual material.
2. This requirement for PWHT is in addition to and does not preclude the
use of PWHT, as specified by the relevant construction and fabrication
industry codes.
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Table 3: Postweld Heat Treatment for Ferritic Materials

Material
PWHT Temperature Range
(Nominal Analysis)
P-Number
Carbon Steel
610665
11301230
ManganeseMolybdenum
620720
11501325
620720
11501325
/2 Cr /2 Mo
620720
11501325
1 Cr1/2 Mo
705745
13001375
11/4 Cr1/2 Mo
705745
13001375
21/4 Cr1 Mo
720760
13251400
3 Cr1 Mo
720760
13251400
5 Cr1/2 Mo
720760
13251400
7 Cr /2 Mo
720760
13251400
9 Cr1 Mo
720760
13251400
12 Cr (martensitic)
720790
13251450
12 Cr (ferritic)
None
None
21/4 Ni
9A
595635
11001175
31/2 Ni
9B
595635
11001175
5 Ni
11A
550585
10251085
9 Ni
11A
550585
10251085
C /2 Mo
1
NOTES:
1. Temperature of any part of weldment during PWHT shall not be less than shown above.
Minimum holding time at temperature shall be one hour.
2. This table does not apply to normalized and tempered materials or to quenched and tempered
materials. PWHT of such materials shall be approved by Mobil. It shall be such that the weld
and HAZ hardnesses do not exceed 225 HB (238 HV10) and the mechanical properties are not less
than the specification minimum.
9.2.4.
PWHT of TMCP Steels

Welds in TMCP steels shall not be postweld heat treated.
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MP 55-P-19
9.2.5.
July 1998
PWHT of Quenched and Tempered Steels

Welds in quenched and tempered steels shall not be postweld heat treated at a
temperature above the tempering temperature. When in doubt, the steel
supplier shall be contacted to determine a satisfactory heat treatment
procedure.
9.3.
Hardness Testing
9.3.1.
Hardness Scales For Sour Service

NACE MR0175 uses the Rockwell C (HRC) scale of hardness as the scale
for measurement, control and acceptability of hardness for materials in sour
service. Mobil recommends the use of the Vickers HV10 scale for measuring
of hardness in weld procedure qualification testing. Mobil recommends the
Brinell B scale (HB) for production testing of weldments and the Rockwell
C, when practical, for procurement and production testing of materials.
Hardness conversions between the three scales are given in ASTM E140.
The conversion for 22 HRC is 237 HB and 248 HV10.
9.3.2.
Hardness Testing of Welding Procedures

1. Unless otherwise specified in this Practice, weld procedures shall be
supplied with a hardness survey. The hardness survey may be completed
using any indentation hardness test method recognized by an ASTM
standard, except Brinell.
2. All hardness surveys shall be conducted on suitably prepared and etched
transverse sections removed from the PQR test coupon. Hardness surveys
shall include readings from the base metal, heat affected zones and the weld
metal, taken at locations suitable for determining maximum hardness of
each zone of both sides of the weldment (refer to Figure 6). The maximum
weld hardness at any location in the weldment shall be 248 HV10.
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MP 55-P-19
July 1998
Figure 6: Hardness Survey

9.3.3.
Hardness Testing of Production Welds

A quality control procedure that can be used for field welding of carbon steel,
low alloy steel and other transformation hardenable material is the
measurement of the surface hardness of the weld.
For carbon steels, the hardness shall not exceed 200 HB.
For pipeline steels with SMYS equal to or greater than 450,000 kPa
(65,000 psi), the hardness shall not exceed 225 HB.
Hardness tests of carbon steel shall be performed on the deposited
weld metal after heat treatment (if applied) using an indentation type
hardness testing instrument for which an ASTM standard exists.
For each weld tested, two hardness readings, separated by a

distance greater than the weld length divided by three, shall be taken.
Where accessible, all hardness readings shall be performed

on external (non-process side) weld surfaces.
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MP 55-P-19
9.4.
July 1998
Threaded Connections
Threaded connections are not permitted in sour service for primary process
piping greater than NPS 3/4.
Threaded connections are permitted for secondary lines, such as for

instruments that are downstream of flanged block valves, connected by welded fittings
on the primary process piping, but their use shall be minimized.
Use of thread connections in other applications may be approved on a caseby-case basis by the Mobil project engineer.
9.5.
Identification and Stamping of Material

Materials and fabrications may be identified using the following:
1. Raised lettering integral to hot forming or casting operations.
2. Low stress, interrupted dot stamps applied to external surfaces not exposed to the sour
environment.
3. Die stamps applied at a temperature above 595C (1100F) or applied prior to final
heat treatment at a minimum temperature of 595C (1100F).
4. Sharp Vee, rounded Vee or interrupted dot stamps applied to the low stress area on the
outer rim of flanges.
5. Indelible markers that are free of chlorides, sulfides and heavy metals such as lead
may be used where stamping is not permitted or is impractical.
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Appendix A: Pressure Piping
10. Pressure Piping and Component Material

Table A: Pressure Piping and Component Material, Design, Welding,
Fabrication and Non-Destructive Examination Options for Various Sour Service
Categories (ASME B31.3)
(Note 1)
Critical Service
Non-Critical Service
Seam welded pipe to

Appendix O (Note 10)
Same as for critical service
Material Selection Options

Pipe
Seamless pipe to ASTM A106

GRB (Note 11)
Wrought Fittings
Welded carbon steel to

Appendix P; or
Same as for critical service
CRA or CRA clad CS to

match pipe
Seamless fittings to ASTM
A105/A105M or ASTM
A234/A234M REV A WPB
(Note 11)
Forgings
Carbon steel to ASTM

A105/A105M (Note 11)
Use materials listed in MP 16P-30A for sour service
CRA or CRA clad CS to

match pipe
Valves
Bolting
SSC/HIC resistant steel

(Appendix N)
All valve parts to meet NACE

MR0175
CRA, CRA clad
Body to be casting meeting

qualityLevel 3 or forgings.
Body to be heat treated after
welding.
Refer to Section 7
Refer to Section 7
Design and Fabrication (Note 2)
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MP 55-P-19
(Note 1)
July 1998
Critical Service
Butt Welds
Full penetration
Full penetration
Small Bore Pipe Welds
BW (Note 3)
BW preferred, SW acceptable
(Note 3) for pipe sizes
NPS 11/2 and less
Branch Connection
BW tees preferred
BW tees preferred
Full penetration welds for

WOLs and SOLs, if permitted
(Note 3)
Full penetration welds for

WOLs, SOLs and TOLs
(Notes 3 and 4), if permitted
WPS/PQR Hardness
Vickers survey required (Note

5) Refer to Section 9.3
Survey required (Note 6)

Refer to Section 9.3
PWHT
Refer to Section 9.2.2
See Section 9.2.1
Production Hardness
Shall be considered . Refer to

Section 9.3.3
May be considered See

Section 9.3.3
Butt Welds
100 percent RT (Note 8)
Per MP 16-P-40 (Note 8)
Branches
100 percent MT (Note 10)
Non-Destructive Examination
NOTES:
1. Refer to Sections 2 and 3 and EPT 08-T-03, Materials for Sour Service, for a discussion of factors
influencing service category and typical classification of equipment.
2. Refer to Section 9 of this Practice for design and fabrication details.
3. Because of the difficulty of inspecting socket welds and due to the problem of crevice corrosion
with them, the use of socket welds (SW) is discouraged. Whenever possible, the use of butt
welding (BW) connections is recommended.
4. Minimize use of threaded connections.
5. Vickers indentor load shall be 10 kg.
6. Hardness survey may be by any indentation method for which there is an ASTM standard, except
Brinell.
7. Applies to non-clad CS. Clad CS receives PWHT in accordance with ASME B31.3, ASME
B31.4 or ASME B31.8.
8. Interpret using ASME B31.3 for severe cyclic conditions with the exception of undercut (UC).
UC shall remain as for 100 percent RT.
9. Interpret using ASME SEC VIII, Division 1, Appendix 6 or equivalent.
10. Spiral weld pipe shall not be used.
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MP 55-P-19
July 1998
11. CE 0.43.
Material for hub type connectors shall match the pipe material chemical and mechanical properties.
Compression seal rings used with hub type connectors shall meet the requirements of NACE
MR0175. (Refer to MP 16-P-30A.)
11. Branch Connections

Branch connections in corrosive two-phase environments shall be made from the top of the main
header. (Refer to MP 16-P-01.)
12. Flanged Connections

For corrosive and/or erosive services, provision of a solid Teflon insert for the annular space inside
the RTJ or spiral wound gasket shall be considered. The ID of the insert shall match the pipe bore
and the OD shall match the ID of the gasket. (Refer to MP 16-P-01.)
13. Drains
In the presence of H2S, all drains shall be hard-piped to a closed drain system. (Refer to MP 16-P01.)
14. Coatings
External and internal protective coating systems for platform piping and risers shall conform to MP
35-P-01.
15. Valves and Chokes

Stainless steel is the preferred internal trim for carbon steel valves. When hardfacing is required for
erosion control, it shall be applied over stainless steel.
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MP 55-P-19
July 1998
Valve parts that are not freely vented to the atmosphere shall conform to the sour service requirements
of this Practice. This includes insulated valves, buried valves, bolts inside flange protectors or bolting
otherwise denied free access to the atmosphere.
Weld repair of castings shall be minimized.
All valve springs, including those used in bellows-sealed relief valves, shall be made of materials
resistant to SSC. Acceptable spring materials are listed under clause 8.3 of NACE MR0175.
Elastomers and packings for valves are discussed in Section 6 of this Practice.
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Appendix B: Pressure Vessels and Towers

Table B: Carbon Steel Pressure Vessel Material, Design, Welding, Fabrication
and Non-Destructive Examination Options For Various Sour Service Categories
(Typically ASME SEC VIII, Division 1)
(Note 1)
Critical Service
HIC tested plate to

Appendices K and L; or
Killed carbon steel with grid

UT of plate to ASTM
A578/A578M Level 2 (Note 3)
CRA Clad Plate (Note 2)
Restricted chemistry material

with/without coating (Notes 4
and 5)
Killed carbon steel; or
Killed carbon steel

Shell and Heads
Pipe, Fittings and Forgings
CRA or CRA clad or

overlayed CS to match
Tubes
Refer to Section 5
Refer to Section 5
Design & Fabrication (Note 6)

Welds
Full penetration welds

(Notes 7 and 8)
Full penetration welds (Notes 7

and 9)
Nozzles
Radiographable
vessolets/sweepolets designs
preferred
Nozzle design per Code
Set-in or set-through designs

acceptable
Set-on designs allowed for

openings 4 NPS, on shells
and heads with t50 mm (2
in). Refer to Section 9.1.2

openings NPS. Refer to
Section 9.1.
WPS/PQR Hardness
Vickers survey required

(Note 10). Refer to Section
9
Survey required (Note 11).

Refer to Section 9
PWHT
Required, 610C (1130F)

min (Note 12)
Required, 610C (1130F) min

(Note 12)
Production Hardness
Consider
Not required
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MP 55-P-19
(Note 1)
Critical Service
July 1998
Long. & Girth Welds
Full RT (Note 13)
NDE per MP 12-P-01
Full UT if t>50 mm (2 in)

(Note 14)
WFMT (Note 15) welds
exposed to process
Nozzle Welds
WFMT (Note 15) welds

exposed to process
NDE per MP 12-P-01
Full UT if > NPS 4 (Note

14)
NOTES:
1. Refer to the tutorial EPT 08-T-03, Materials for Sour Service, for a discussion of factors
2. Economic decisions with respect to use of CRA or carbon steel shall consider life cycle costs,
including extended periods between shutdowns and elimination of WFMT during shutdowns and
possible elimination of PWHT.
3. UT performed to ASTM A578/A578M S1.1 and S2.2. Any area with one or more discontinuities,
which produce a continuous total loss of back reflection and cannot be encompassed within a 25
mm (1 in) diameter circle, is unacceptable.
4. The quality of the coating job shall be closely monitored.
5. Sacrificial anodes shall also be considered for use with coatings, in order to supplement corrosion
protection.
7. Applies to all longitudinal seams, circumferential seams and nozzle connections (ASME
Category D connections).
8. For critical service, internal attachment welds connecting pressure containing parts shall be full
penetration to avoid interface for H2 collection (refer to MP 12-P-01).
9. For moderate and mild service, as a minimum, welds connecting non-pressure to pressure parts
shall be continuous to seal the perimeter of the part and prevent corrosion behind the attachment
(Refer to MP 12-P-01).
Brinell. Refer to Section 9.3.
12. Applies to non-clad CS. For clad CS, PWHT per ASME SEC VIII, Division 1.
13. RT to ASME SEC VIII, Division 1, Paragraph UW51 or equivalent.
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MP 55-P-19
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14. UT to ASME SEC VIII, Division 1, Appendix 12 or equivalent.

15. Where accessible, after hydrotest WFMT welds are exposed to the process according to ASME
SEC VIII, Division 1, Appendix 6 or equivalent. This is in addition to the requirements of MP
12-P-01.
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Appendix C: Shell and Tube Heat Exchangers (Refer to

MP 13-P-10)
16. Shell and Tube Heat Exchanger Material

Table C: Shell and Tube Heat Exchanger Material, Design, Welding,
Fabrication and Non-Destructive Examination Options for Various Sour Service
Categories (TEMA and ASME SEC VIII, Division 1)
(Note 1)
Critical Service
HIC tested plate to

Appendices K and L

UT of plate to ASTM
A578/A578M Level 2; (Note
3)
CRA Clad Plate (Note 2)
Restricted chemistry material
Killed carbon steel
Killed carbon steel

Shell, Head and Channel
CRA or CRA clad or

overlayed CS to match
Tubes
Refer to Section 4
Refer to Section 4
Welds
Full penetration welds (Notes

5 and 6)

and 7)
Nozzles
Radiographable
vessolets/sweepolets designs
preferred

preferred

acceptable

openings NPS 4

openings NPS 4, on shells
and heads with t50 mm (2
in)
Construction
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MP 55-P-19
July 1998
(Note 1)
Critical Service
WPS/PQR Hardness

8)
PWHT
Required, 610C (1130F)

min (Note 10)
Required, 610C (1130F) min

(Note 10)
Production Weld Test
100 percent required
10 percent required
Full RT (Note 11)
Full RT (Note 11)
Full UT if t>50 mm (2 in)

(Note 12)
WFMT (Note 13)
Long. and Circ. Welds
WFMT (Note 13)

Nozzle Cat. D Welds
WFMT (Note 13)
WFMT (Note 13)
Full UT if > NPS 4 (Note 12)

Tube to Tubeplate Welds
WFMT ferrous metals, PT

non-magnetic metals
WFMT ferrous metals, PT nonmagnetic metals
NOTES
1. Refer to the tutorial EPT 08-T-03, Materials for Sour Service, for discussion of factors
2. Economic decisions with respect to use of CRA or carbon steel shall consider life cycle costs,
including extended periods between shutdowns and elimination of WFMT during shutdowns and
possible elimination of PWHT.
3. UT performed to ASTM A578/A578M S1.1 and S2.2. Any area with one or more discontinuities,
which produce a continuous total loss of back reflection and cannot be encompassed within a 25
mm (1 in) diameter circle, is unacceptable.
5. Applies to all longitudinal seams, circumferential seams and nozzle connections (ASME
Category D connections).
6. For critical service, internal attachment welds connecting pressure containing parts shall be full
penetration to avoid interface for H2 collection (refer to MP 12-P-01).
7. For moderate and mild service, as a minimum, welds connecting non-pressure to pressure parts
shall be continuous to seal the perimeter of the part and prevent corrosion behind the attachment
(Refer to MP 12-P-01).
Brinell. Refer to Section 9.3.
10. Applies to non-clad CS. For clad CS, PWHT per ASME SEC VIII, Division 1.
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MP 55-P-19
July 1998

13. Where accessible, after hydrotest WFMT welds are exposed to the process according to ASME
SEC VIII, Division 1, Appendix 6 or equivalent. This is in addition to the requirements of MP
12-P-01.
17. Dissimilar Materials

Tubes shall not be anodic to the tube sheet or shell.
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Appendix D: Air-Cooled Heat Exchangers (Refer to MP

13-P-15)
18. Aerial Cooler Material

Table D: Aerial Cooler Material, Design, Welding, Fabrication and
Nondestructive Examination Options For Various Sour Service Categories
(API STD 661)
(Note 1)
Critical Service
HIC resistant plate to

Appendix L;

UT of plate to ASTM
A578/A578M Level 2 (Note 3)

Header Box and Tube Plate
CRA Clad Plate (Note 2);

CRA plate
Killed carbon steel
Killed carbon steel
CRA or CRA clad

Tubes
Carbon steel or CRA
Carbon steel
Welds
Full penetration welds

(Notes 5 and 6)

and 7)
Nozzles
Radiographable
vessolet/sweepolet designs
preferred
Nozzle design per ASME SEC

VIII, Division 1
Set-in designs acceptable

openings NPS 4, on header
boxes with t50 mm (2 in)
WPS/PQR Hardness
Survey required
PWHT, Header Box
Refer to Section 9 (Note 9)
Refer to Section 9
Production Weld Tests
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MP 55-P-19
(Note 1)
July 1998
Critical Service
Header Box Welds
Full RT or UT long seams

and end plate welds (Notes
11 and 12)
Refer to MP 13-P-15 (Note 10)
Nozzle Welds
Full UT if > NPS 4 (Note

12)
Refer to MP 13-P-15 (Note 10)
Full MT all nozzles

NOTES:
1. Refer to Section 3 of this Practice for a discussion of factors influencing service category and
typical classification of equipment.
2. Economic decisions with respect to the use of CRA or carbon steel shall consider life cycle costs,
including extended periods between shutdowns and elimination of WFMT during shutdowns.
Selection of CRA depends on actual service conditions and shall be done in consultation with a
materials specialist.
3. UT performed to ASTM A578/A578M S1.1 and S2.2. Any area with one or more discontinuities
that produce a continuous total loss of back reflection and cannot be encompassed within a 25
mm (1 in) diameter circle is unacceptable.
5. Applies to all longitudinal seams, end plate welds, circumferential seams and nozzle connections
(ASME Category D connections.)
6. For critical service, welds connecting attachments shall be full penetration, to avoid interface for
H2 collection.
7. For non-critical service, as a minimum, welds connecting attachments shall be continuous to seal
the perimeter of the part and prevent corrosion behind the attachment.
Brinell. Where Vickers indenter is used, the load shall be 10 kg.
9. Applies to non-clad CS. For clad CS, PWHT in accordance with ASME SEC VIII, Division 1.
12. MT welds to ASME SEC VIII, Division 1, Appendix 6 or equivalent.
18.1. Nozzles and Connections

Equipment shall have flanged nozzles or connections. Slip-on flanges and seal and
backwelded threaded connectors shall not be used. Threaded plugs may be used as
closures for tube-rolled openings in headers.
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MP 55-P-19
July 1998
18.2. Plug Sheet Plugs

Plug threads shall be coated with a molybdenum disulfide base lubricant.
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Appendix E: Plate Type Heat Exchangers

Plate type heat exchangers shall not be used in critical, sour or toxic service where gasket leaks pose
an unacceptable risk.
Experience shows that plate heat exchangers are very reliable and do not have many leakage
problems. However, due to the large number of gaskets, there is a potential for leakage and therefore
an unacceptable risk in critical service.
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Appendix F: Fired Heaters

Designs and materials requirements for fired heaters are covered in MP 11-P-01. Heater tube
materials for H2S service shall also meet all the requirements of NACE MR0175 and this Practice.
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Appendix G: Pipelines (Refer to MP 20-P-01)
19. Gas Pipelines

Table G: Gas Pipeline Material, Design, Construction and Non-Destructive
Examination Options for Various Sour Service Categories
Critical Service
HIC tested bare steel pipe

(Note 1) with HIC resistant
steel components (Note 10);
Bare steel system (Note 9)
Material Selection
Pipe and Component Material
System
CRA-S system
CRA-C pipe with CRA-S,
CRA-C or CRA-O
components
Design
Branches
BW tees (Notes 2 and 3)
WPS/PQR Hardness

5). Refer to Section 9
Hardness survey required

(Note 6). Refer to Section 9
Repair Welds
PQR required
PQR required
Backweld not permitted
Backweld not permitted
Refer to Section 9
Refer to Section 9
PWHT
Per Code
Per Code
Production Hardness
Shall be considered
May be required
Refer to Section 9
Refer to Section 9
Girth Welds
100 percent RT
O-Lets
Construction (Note 4)
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MP 55-P-19
July 1998
NOTES:
1. Refer to MP 20-P-02 for procurement of HIC resistant and HIC tested pipe.
2. O-lets shall not be used in sizes greater than NPS 4. When O-lets are permitted in lieu of butt
welding (BW) tees for outlet sizes equal to or less than NPS 4, full penetration welds are required
for the O-let to run connection.
3. When pigging facilities are included in the design, barred tees shall be used. Welding of bars
shall satisfy the requirements of this MEP.
4. Table G1 refers to mainline construction. For above ground piping (e.g., at wellsites, valve
stations, pigging facilities, test facilities, compressor stations or pump stations) refer to Section 8
of this Practice.
Brinell.
7. Interpret using ASME B31.8 and API STD 1104 or equivalent, except incomplete penetration
greater than 13 mm (1/2 in), is not permitted. No burnthroughs are permitted.
8. Interpret using ASME SEC VIII, Division 1, Appendix 6 or equivalent.
9. Inhibitor system may be required.
10. P < 0.025 percent, S < 0.010 percent; maximum yield strength shall not exceed 550 MPa (80
ksi); macrohardness 22 HRC; microhardness 248 HV (500); ERW pipe NPS 2 shall be
subjected to the root guided-bend test.
20. Liquid Multiphase Pipelines

Table G: Liquid Multiphase Pipeline Material, Design, Construction and NonDestructive Examination Options for Various Sour Service Categories
Critical Service
HIC tested bare steel pipe

(Note 1) with HIC resistant
steel components (Note 10)
Bare standard steel system

(Note 9)
CRA-S system
CML steel system
CRA-C pipe and CRA-S,

CRA-C or CRA-O
components
IPC steel system

Pipe And Component Material
System
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MP 55-P-19
July 1998
Critical Service
Per Code
WPS/PQR Hardness
Vickers survey required

(Notes 5 and 6)
Vickers survey required (Notes

5 and 6)
PWHT
Per ASME Piping Code
Production Hardness
Optional
Not required
Girth Welds
O-lets

comment on min. 10 percent
RT good practice
Design
Branches
Construction (4)
NOTES:
1. Refer to Appendices K and L for guidance with the procurement of HIC resistant and HIC tested
pipe.
2. When O-lets are permitted in lieu of butt welding (BW) tees, full penetration welds are required
for the O-let to run connection.
3. When pigging facilities are included in the design, barred tees shall be used. Welding of bars
shall satisfy the requirements of this MEP.
4. Table G-2 refers to mainline construction. For above ground piping (e.g., at wellsites, valve
stations, pigging facilities, test facilities, compressor stations or pump stations). Refer to
Appendix A of this Practice.
5. Vickers indentor load shall be
10 kg.
Brinell. Refer to Section 9.3 of this Practice.
7. Interpret using ASME B31.8 and API STD 1104 or equivalent, except incomplete penetration
greater than 13 mm (1/2 in), is not permitted. No burnthroughs are permitted.
8. Interpret using ASME SEC VIII, Division 1 or equivalent.
9. Inhibitor system may be required.
10. P <0.025 percent, S< 0.010 percent; maximum yield strength shall not exceed 550 MPa (80 ksi);
macrohardness 22 HRC; microhardness 248 HV (500); ERW pipe NPS 2 shall be
subjected to the root guided-bend test.
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MP 55-P-19
July 1998
21. Cold Formed Bends

Cold formed bends to be used in wet H2S service shall be given a stress relieving or normalizing heat
treatment if hardness after bending exceeds 225 HB (HV 10 238) or the cold strain in the outer fiber
exceeds 1.5 percent. (Refer to MP 16-P-40.)
22. Hub Type Connectors

Material for hub-type connectors shall be plain carbon steel. Micro-alloy and low alloy steels are not
acceptable without concurrence from the Mobil materials engineer. Compression seal rings used with
hub-type connectors shall meet the requirements of NACE MR0175.
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Appendix H: Instrumentation (Refer to MP 32-P-01)
23. Tubing
Tubing exposed to sour service or CO2 partial pressures in excess of 48.2 kPa (7 psia) shall be Type
316L stainless steel. For services with temperatures and chlorides in the stress cracking region of
Figure 5, the tubing material shall be Incoloy 825 or Monel.
24. Instrument Valves and Instrument Internals

Instrument valves and internals for sour service shall be Type 316L stainless steel. For services with
temperatures and chlorides in the stress cracking region of Figure 5, the material shall be Incoloy 825
or a Monel alloy, if the temperature is less than 150C (300F).
Rupture disks, diaphragms and bellows shall be Incoloy 825 or equal. When the partial pressure of
H2S exceeds 5 psia, the material shall be Inconel 625 or equal.
Instrumentation that cannot be heat treated after welding or that cannot function in the softened
condition (e.g., bellows, diaphragms, Bourdon tubes) shall be manufactured from materials resistant
to cracking in the hardened or non-heat treated conditions.
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Appendix I: Tankage
Tanks designed to store sour liquids shall be fabricated in accordance with this Practice. The wetted
materials shall conform to NACE MR0175. Where HIC-resistant carbon steel materials are not
available, procurement of killed pressure vessel carbon steels, with specified ultimate tensile strengths
not to exceed 415,000 kPa (60,000 psi), shall be considered. In addition, restrictions on the use of
micro-alloying additions and CE not to exceed 0.43 are recommended. The use of an appropriate
organic or inorganic coating, properly applied and inspected, shall also be considered as further
protection against HIC and SOHIC cracking.
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Appendix J: Fugitive Emissions

Sour service facilities are typically subjected to low-level atmospheric H 2S contamination. Over
time, this environment can corrode sensitive electrical equipment and galvanized metal buildings.
Caution shall be exercised in spacing, ventilation and material selection to ensure appropriate
reliability and longevity.
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Appendix K: HIC Testing of Carbon Steel Plate and Pipe
Scope
When proven resistance to Hydrogen Induced Cracking (HIC) is required, the HIC test shall be
conducted in accordance with NACE TM0284 and this appendix, using the low pH solution specified
in NACE TM0177. All references to pipe in NACE TM0284 shall be applied to plate, where
possible.
25. Plate
25.1. Test Frequency and Location
One plate from each thickness of each heat (or ladle if a heat is refined in more than one
batch) shall be tested.
25.2. Test Coupon Orientation and Removal

Coupons shall be taken from the plate with the longitudinal axis of the coupon parallel to
the rolling direction.
Test coupons shall not be heated over 200C (392F) during removal, nor flattened or cold
worked.
25.3. Acceptance Criteria

For each plate, the Crack Length Ratio (CLR), Crack Thickness Ratio (CTR) and Crack
Sensitivity Ratio (CSR) shall be determined and reported and include the following
information:
Individual values measured on each cross-section of each specimen
Average value for the three cross-sections of each coupon
Average value for the three coupons (nine cross-sections) of each plate
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MP 55-P-19
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Acceptance criteria shall be based on the calculated average CLR and CTR for each
coupon (i.e., the average of the three individual cross-sectional results for each coupon).
These are delineated as CLRcavg and CTRcavg under the following acceptance, rejection
and retest criteria.
25.4. Tests
Test results shall be accepted when:
CLRcavg 10.0 percent
CTRcavg 1.5 percent
On failure to meet these acceptance criteria, retesting shall be subject to negotiation

between Mobil and the manufacturer.
25.5. Reporting of Test Results

In addition to the reporting requirements of NACE TM0284, the report shall include the
following:
A description of the visual appearance of each coupon (e.g., a tabulation of

the number of blisters and size range for each coupon).
Individual section CSR, CLR and CTR for each of the three cross sections of
each coupon.
Coupon average CSR, CLR and CTR (i.e., the average of the three cross
sections for each coupon).
Plate average CSR, CLR and CTR (i.e., average of the nine cross sections
examined from the three coupons used for each plate).
All CSR, CLR and CTR measurements in reports shall be traceable to heat number,
cast/ingot number and location, plate number and plate position. Results that do not
comply with the acceptance criteria specified in this appendix shall be highlighted in the
report.
Three copies of reports containing all relevant data and measurements as required by
NACE TM0284 and this appendix shall be submitted to Mobil.
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July 1998
26. Pipe
26.1. Hydrogen Induced Cracking Testing
When sour service is specified, hydrogen induced cracking tests shall be made on line
pipe material grades X52 through X65. One pipe selected from every 100 pipe lengths of
each heat shall be tested.
Specimens shall be prepared and evaluated in accordance with NACE TM0284, with the
test solution modified to conform with the test requirements of NACE TM0177.
Acceptance criteria shall be as follows:
No transverse cracks
Crack Thickness Ratio (CTR) shall be less than 1.5 percent
Crack Length Ratio (CLR) shall be less than 10.0 percent
26.2. Retest
If any test fails, two additional pipe lengths shall be selected at random from the 100
lengths and retested. If either of the tests fail, each pipe from the lot of 100 lengths shall
be tested for individual acceptance.
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Appendix L: HIC Resistant Plate
27. Scope
This appendix provides guidance on the procurement of HIC and SSC resistant steel plate; however,
proof of resistance by testing is not required. If proven HIC or SSC resistance is deemed necessary,
testing procedures and standards of acceptance shall be specified (refer to Appendix K for HIC testing
and NACE TM0177 for SSC testing).
28. Steelmaking
28.1. Vacuum Degassing
The plate steel shall be vacuum degassed (refer to ASME SEC IIA, Supplementary
Requirement S1).
28.2. Deoxidation Practice

Plate steel shall be fully killed.
28.3. Grain Size

Carbon and carbon manganese steel plate shall be made to fine grain practice.
28.4. Inclusion Shape Control

Plate material deoxidized with both silicon and aluminum shall be manufactured utilizing
an inclusion shape control melting practice.
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MP 55-P-19
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29. Chemical Analysis

29.1. Heat And Product Analysis
Both heat and product analysis for carbon and carbon-manganese steels shall satisfy the
requirements of the following:
Material
Maximum Limit in Percent
Carbon
0.15
Manganese
1.20
Phosphorus
0.015
Sulfur
0.003
Silicon
0.35
Total Other Elements
1.0
Carbon Equivalent (IIW)
0.43
29.2. Unspecified Elements

The quantity of unspecified elements shall be within the limits stated in ASME SEC IIA,
Table 1 and in the above table.
30. Heat Treatment

Material shall be normalized at 913C 13C (1675F 25F) for one hour per 25 mm (1 in) of
thickness. For steel less than 25 mm (1 in), the minimum hold time shall be one hour.
31. Mechanical Properties

Low strength steel plate, such as ASTM A516/A516M Grade 55 or 60, is preferred.
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MP 55-P-19
July 1998
32. Non-Destructive Examination (UT Lamination

Check)
Plate shall be subject to straight-beam ultrasonic examination according to ASTM A578/A578M and
the appropriate inspection levels indicated in the table below. Supplementary requirements S1.1 (100
percent surface scan) and S2.2 (alternate acceptance level) shall be applied when indicated by the
table. Regarding the alternate acceptance level, the plate shall be rejected when any area with one or
more discontinuities, producing a continuous total loss of back reflection, cannot be encompassed
within the specified circle diameter.
For each inspection level, the recording of indications shall apply to all plate thicknesses. Recordable
indications shall be reported in a sketch that mirrors the geometry of the plate and dimensions the
location and depth (from the test surface) of the recordable indications. (Refer to MP 12-P-01.)
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Plate Thickness
t 10 mm (t 3/8 in)
t 50 mm (t 2 in)
t 50 mm (t 2in)
HIC Test
Not Required
Not Required
Required
Scanning Level
Per ASTM
A578/A578M
Per ASTM
A578/A578M S1.1
(100 percent)
Per ASTM
A578/A578M S1.1
(100 percent)
Circle Size
Per ASTM
A578/A578M, Level
II
25 mm (1 in)
6 mm (1/4 in)
33. HIC Testing

In critical service, HIC tests shall be performed by suppliers to prove that their steel possesses
sufficient HIC resistance. HIC testing procedures based on NACE TM0284, with a NACE TM0177
low pH solution, are provided in Appendix K of this Practice. For acceptance, the CTR (crack
thickness ratio) and CLR (crack length ratio) shall not exceed 1.5 percent and 10.0 percent,
respectively. Detailed information on acceptance and retest criteria are provided in Appendix K.
Mobil Oil,1998
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Appendix M: Carbon Steel Castings for Severe Service
34. Scope
This appendix provides guidance on the procurement of carbon steel castings for valves, flanges,
fittings or other pressure containing parts for severe service. Proof of resistance to sulfide stress
cracking (SSC) is not required; however, if proven resistance to SSC is desired, testing procedures
and standards of acceptance shall be specified on the purchasing documents.

Chemical analysis shall satisfy the requirements of ASTM A216/A216M or ASTM A352/A352M, for
carbon steels and carbon-manganese steels, as applicable. Total unspecified elements shall not
exceed 0.10 percent. The carbon equivalent of butt welding castings shall not exceed 0.43.
36. Heat Treatment

Castings shall be heat treated to ensure hardness below 200 HB throughout. The method of heat
treatment and the time/temperature thermal cycle shall be shown on the mill certificate.
37. Hardness Testing

The surface of each casting shall be hardness tested using an indentation method recognized by an
ASTM standard. Hardness shall not exceed 200 HB or equivalent, as determined by conversion
tables in ASTM A370 REV A or ASTM E140.
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MP 55-P-19
July 1998
38. Non-Destructive Examination

38.1. Examination According to MP 03-P-02
Castings shall be examined to the Quality Il requirements of MP 03-P-02.
38.2. Examination of Weld Preparation

Each weld preparation of butt welding castings shall be examined by magnetic particle or
liquid penetrant methods. ASME SEC VIII, Division 1, Appendix 6 or 8 may be used as a
standard of acceptance.
39. Repair by Welding

Refer to Section 9.1.4 of this MEP.
40. Certification
Castings shall be supplied with certification equivalent to the requirements of ASTM A703/A703M
REV A.
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Appendix N: Seam Welded Carbon Steel Pipe for Severe

Sour Service
Scope
This appendix provides guidance on the procurement of HIC and SSC resistant carbon steel pipe for
severe sour service. The process conditions shall be stated on the purchasing documents. When
proof of HIC or SSC resistance is necessary, detailed testing procedures and standards of acceptance
shall be specified by the Mobil Materials Specialist.
41. Steelmaking
41.1. Deoxidation
Steel shall be fully killed.

Steel deoxidized with both silicon and aluminum shall be inclusion shape controlled.

Both heat and product analysis of carbon and carbon-manganese steels shall satisfy the requirements
of the material standard or the following table, whichever is more stringent.
Material
Carbon
0.15
Manganese
1.20
Phosphorus
0.015
Sulfur
0.003
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MP 55-P-19
Material
Silicon
0.35
1.0
Carbon Equivalent
0.40
July 1998
43. Metallurgical Condition of ERW Seam Weld

The seam weld shall be fully recrystallized through the wall thickness, as a result of a normalizing
treatment.

The actual ultimate tensile strength of procured pipe shall be restricted to a maximum number of
550,000 kPa (80,000 psi). Representative cross-section samples of the seam weld shall be
metallurgically examined and hardness tested. The metallurgical examination shall be proof of the
microstructure of the weld. A hardness survey taken across the weldment from parent metal to parent
metal using the Vickers 10 kg load shall not result in a hardness exceeding 248 Hv 10.
45. HIC Testing

Consideration shall be given to HIC testing of pipe according to NACE TM0284, using the low pH
solution defined in NACE TM0177. CTR (crack thickness ratio) and CLR (crack length ratio) shall
not exceed 1.5 percent and 10.0 percent respectively. If necessary, a system for retesting may be
developed from information contained in Appendix K.
46. Certification
Mill certification shall reflect the fact that HIC testing has been performed and was satisfactory (if
required).
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Appendix O: Carbon Steel Welded for Severe Sour

Service
Scope
This appendix provides guidance on the procurement of HIC and SSC resistant wrought carbon steel
fittings for severe sour service. When proof of HIC or SSC resistance is considered necessary, testing
procedures and standards of acceptance shall be specified by the Mobil materials engineer.
Fittings shall meet the requirements of a recognized fitting material standard such as ASTM
A234/A234M REV A or ASTM A420/A420M.
47. Steelmaking
47.1. Deoxidation
Steel shall be fully killed.
47.2. Steel Grain Size

Steel shall be made to a fine grain practice.

Steel deoxidized with both silicon and aluminum shall be inclusion shape controlled.
47.4. Chemical Analysis

Both heat and product analysis shall satisfy the requirements of the material standard or
the following Maximum Limit data, whichever is more stringent. Vanadium used for
grain refinement or deoxidization shall not exceed 0.08 percent (Refer to ASTM A788,
S2.1).
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MP 55-P-19
Material
Carbon
0.15
Manganese
1.20
Phosphorus
0.015
Sulfur
0.003
Silicon
0.35
1.0
Carbon Equivalent
0.40
July 1998
48. Fitting Manufacture

For welded fittings, the control of welding, PWHT and NDE are necessary. Manufacture by cold
work shall not be permitted without subsequent thermal stress relief adequate to reduce hardness
below 200 HB.

The actual ultimate tensile strength of procured fittings shall be a maximum of 550,000 kPa (80,000
psi).
The surface of each fitting shall be hardness tested using an indentation method recognized by an
ASTM standard. Hardness shall not exceed the lesser of that required by the material standard, 200
HB or equivalent as determined by conversion tables in ASTM A370 REV A or ASTM E140.
50. Welding
50.1. Fittings Manufactured By Welding
Fittings manufactured by welding shall satisfy the recommendations of Section 9 of this
Practice.
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MP 55-P-19
July 1998
50.2. Weld Repairs

Weld repairs to the body of fittings, including weld buildup at the outlet of tees, shall not
be permitted.
51. Heat Treatment

Fittings shall be furnished either in the normalized, normalized and tempered or the quenched and
tempered condition. Fittings fabricated by welding shall be postweld heat treated using a thermal
cycle that ensures hardness is reduced below 200 HB. Fittings subject to cold work in excess of 5
percent outer fiber strain shall be stress-relieved using a thermal cycle that ensures hardness is
reduced below 200 HB.
52. Certification
Mill certification shall reflect the fact that the HIC test has been performed (if required) and was
satisfactory.
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