Observations on the Stress Corrosion Crack Propagation Characteristics of High Strength Steels

Abstract

Abstract The relationship between stress corrosion crack velocity and crack-tip stress intensity is discussed. In most high strength steels, there is a wide range of stress intensity over which crack velocity is essentially constant. Methods of estimating this velocity are described. Values for a variety of high strength steels are presented and the effects of metallurgical variables are indicated. Implications with regard to testing procedure, crack morphology, and service performance are outlined.