NACE SP0170 (2021) serves as a critical industry standard for protecting austenitic stainless steel equipment from polythionic acid stress corrosion cracking (PTA SCC) during refinery shutdowns. The practice outlines essential mitigation techniques, including nitrogen blanketing and alkaline washing, to prevent failures in sensitized stainless steel. While foundational for safety, modern discussions analyze its application alongside advanced, resistant materials. For further technical details, visit GlobalSpec.
- Corrosion Prevention: Standards like NACE SP0170 are crucial for preventing corrosion, which can lead to significant financial losses, safety hazards, and environmental damage.
- Industry Consensus: They represent an industry consensus on best practices, providing a reference point for professionals involved in corrosion management.
- Safety and Environmental Protection: By providing comprehensive guidelines, these standards help ensure the integrity of infrastructure and equipment, which is vital for public safety and environmental protection.
- Hydrogen embrittlement in blue hydrogen applications
- Additive manufacturing (3D printed) alloys for sour service
- Extreme low-temperature (cryogenic) environments with H₂S
- NACE SP0170-2021: Standard Practice for Corrosion Prevention of Carbon Steel Pipelines by Coatings and Cathodic Protection.
- National Association of Corrosion Engineers (NACE). (2021). Corrosion Prevention in Pipelines.
: Using alkaline "soda ash" washes to neutralize any acidic species that form on the metal surface. Dehumidification
Industry professionals following SP0170 typically employ one or more of the following primary protection methods: Nitrogen Purging
- Enhanced corrosion risk assessment procedures: The updated standard provides more detailed guidelines for corrosion risk assessments, including the identification of corrosive substances, environmental conditions, and materials selection.
- New materials selection criteria: The standard now includes more detailed criteria for selecting materials resistant to corrosion in petroleum refining and petrochemical environments.
- Revised design and fabrication practices: The updated standard provides more specific guidance on design and fabrication practices, including requirements for coatings, linings, and cathodic protection.
- Increased emphasis on inspection and maintenance: The standard now places greater emphasis on regular inspection and maintenance procedures to prevent corrosion and ensure equipment integrity.