NACE TM0284 : 2026

Scope

This standard provides a set of test conditions for the consistent evaluation of steel pipes and for comparison of test results from different laboratories. The standard can be applied for the evaluation of HIC damage in steels furnished in the form of pipes, plates, fittings, and flanges for use in fabricating pipelines and pressure vessels. The standard also includes fitness-for-purpose testing to assess HIC damage under less severe test conditions with reduced partial pressure of H2S in a range of pH values.

Test conditions are not designed to simulate any particular pipeline or process operation, even though, in fitness-for-purpose tests, partial pressures of H2S and pH values appropriate to the expected service conditions must be selected. The test is intended to evaluate resistance to HIC only, and not to other adverse effects of sour environments such as sulfide stress cracking (SSC), stress-oriented hydrogen-induced cracking (SOHIC), pitting, or mass loss from corrosion.

This test may be used for many purposes, and the applications of the results are beyond the scope of this standard. Those who use the test should be aware that in some cases, test results can be influenced by variations in properties among different locations in a single length of pipe or individual plate, fitting, or flange, as well as by variations within a heat of steel. When the test is used as a basis for purchasing, the number and location of test specimens must be carefully considered. This standard is intended for end users, manufacturers, fabricators, and testing laboratories.

Rationale

This revision to the standard incorporates the previously optional ‘HLP solution’ as Test Solution D, a strongly buffered solution for use in testing requiring greater pH stability than Test Solution C. For example, Test Solution D may be more appropriate for product verification testing conducted at reduced H2S partial pressures. In addition, the test specimen preparation requirements have been revised to permit the final finishing of all types of test specimens, both by grinding or by grit blasting to a uniform near-white metal appearance.