Hydrogen Induced Cold Cracking (HICC) in Welding: Causes, Effects, and Prevention

H2 Cracking , Cold Cracking, Delay Cracking, HAZ cracking. #welding #aws #cswip #TWI #smaw #SAW #hydrogen #ndt #Iron #carbon #carbonsteel #education #inspection #iso #learning #gtaw #asme
Hydrogen Induced cold cracking is a type of cracking that can occur in welds due to the presence of hydrogen. It can happen during cooling or even days later.

Causes:
Hydrogen in the weldment (from moisture, shielding gas, etc.)
Susceptible microstructure (brittle and hard)
High tensile stress
Low temperature (below 300°C)
Effects:
Cracks in the weld metal or heat-affected zone (HAZ)
Reduced weld strength and integrity
Prevention:
Preheat the metal before welding to allow hydrogen to escape.
Use the right shielding gas to minimize hydrogen formation.
Apply post-weld heat treatment to relieve stress.
Select welding processes and consumables that reduce hydrogen content.
Manage residual stress through techniques like weld profile blending.
Understanding HIC and taking preventive measures are crucial for ensuring the safety and reliability of welded structures.

[jagjotwalia]

It's an excellant way of addressing Hydrogen inducement against Metallurgical point of view. Much appreciation and great for knowledge sharing.

[martina]

Have you heard of the Hydrogen 6500 Flux monitoring monitor?