Sulfide Stress Cracking (SSC) Testing Services

Element's comprehensive suite of SSC testing services focuses on early detection and prevention of sulfide stress cracking in sour service conditions. We offer specialized testing compliant with NACE MR0175/ISO 15156 standards, evaluating materials under both standard and specific field conditions to ensure infrastructure reliability.

• Hydrogen-induced cracking (HIC) 

• Stress-oriented hydrogen-induced cracking (SOHIC) 

• Sour Service applications – NACE TM0177, NACE TM0316, EFC 16 and EFC 17 

• NDT testing and inspection, including ultrasonic inspection and magnetic particle testing 

• Four Point bend test 

• C-ring test 

• In-situ hydrogen permeation monitoring 

• Bore and out of diameter (OD) exposure testing 

Residual Stress Full Ring Testing (FRT) / Ovalisation Test  

Offered on pipe material from 2-inch (50 mm) up to 60 inch (1524 mm) diameter according to BS 8701 (formally OTI 95-635). Tests can be conducted on parent material or welded pipe (SAW/seam, spiral and/or girth) with the corrosive environment in contact with the bore or out of diameter (OD). The full pipe section is loaded to the required stress and exposed for a 30-day period after which the sample is examined for evidence of SSC, HIC, SOHIC and Soft-Zone Cracking. The inclusion of in-situ ultrasonic inspection and hydrogen permeation during the test enhances the comprehensiveness of the testing approach. 

Element-developed Test Method: Axially Loaded Full Ring Test (AFRT)  

Element has developed the Axially Loaded Full Ring Test (AFRT) method, specifically designed for SSC testing of parent welded pipes under high axial loads in service. This innovative approach includes a 30-day exposure period and examination for evidence of various forms of cracking, accompanied by in-situ ultrasonic inspection and hydrogen permeation.

We provide comprehensive testing for critical oil and gas infrastructure components, from small-scale piping to large diameter pipelines. Our expertise spans testing of carbon steels, low-alloy steels, and Corrosion Resistant Alloys (CRAs), with specialized capabilities for both parent material and welded pipes ranging from 2 inch (50mm) to 60 inch (1524mm) diameter.

• Parent and welded pipe (SAW/seam, spiral and/or girth) 

• Well components 

• Facilities piping 

• Exploration and refining equipment 

• Full pipe sections 

We evaluate the performance of carbon steel, low alloy steel and Corrosion Resistant Alloys (CRAs) for sour service applications using the following methods:

NACE TM0177 

• Method A – Smooth Tensile Test 

• Method B – Bent-Beam Test 

• Method C – C-Ring Test 

• Method D – Double-Cantilever-Beam (DCB) Test 

NACE TM0316 

• Four Point Bend Test 

EFC 16 

• Carbon and low alloy steel test methods 

EFC 17 

• CRA test methods  

Our state-of-the-art laboratory facilities enable simulation and evaluation under both standard sour conditions and specific field conditions. We assess your materials for SSC resistance in HPHP conditions and exposure to corrosive substances using advanced equipment.

Our team operates from ISO 17025-accredited energy testing hubs across the world, providing global access to our expert capabilities and supporting your diverse geographical operations. Find out where your nearest energy testing hub is on our Locations Page.