Development of test methods for detection of hydrogen embrittlement in high-strength steel

A number of new mechanical test methods are developed and evaluated with the aim of detecting hydrogen embrittlement in press-hardened martensitic steel. The test methods are uncomplicated in the sense that they are simple to conduct, does not require advanced equipment and the results are easily interpreted. Evaluation of the test methods is done by testing specimens with different hydrogen contents. Thus, it is possible to determine hydrogen’s role in the results and draw conclusions whether hydrogen embrittlement has occurred. Among the evaluated methods, the triangular wedge test method and the conical wedge test method detect hydrogen embrittlement successfully within a week. Both methods are based on that a wedge is pressed into a hole in the specimen which creates tensile stresses in the specimen. The load is maintained for 4-6 days which normally leads to delayed failure for specimens with moderate and high hydrogen contents while the specimens with low hydrogen contents remain intact.Validerat; 20101217 (root)