SIST EN 10229:2000

Overview

EN 10229:1998 (CEN) specifies a standardized method for the evaluation of the susceptibility of steel products to hydrogen induced cracking (HIC). The standard applies to steel products with nominal thicknesses of 6 mm or greater, though it may be used for thinner materials by agreement. EN 10229:1998 addresses the evaluation of resistance to HIC only and explicitly does not cover other corrosion mechanisms such as stress corrosion cracking (SCC).

Key topics and requirements

The standard focuses on practical, repeatable evaluation of hydrogen-related cracking susceptibility. Key technical topics include:

• Scope and applicability: defined nominal thickness limit (≥ 6 mm) and provision for agreement on thinner materials.
• Test method framework: standardized procedures to assess HIC susceptibility (sample preparation, exposure and evaluation principles).
• Acceptance criteria: objective evaluation metrics for resistance to HIC (pass/fail assessment and reporting guidelines).
• Limitations: exclusion of other corrosion types; use of complementary tests when needed.
• Documentation and reporting: recommended content for test reports to ensure traceability and reproducibility.

Note: EN 10229:1998 provides the method and evaluation approach; specific laboratory practices and detailed parameters (e.g., sample sizes, test media) are defined within the standard text and should be followed as published.

Applications

EN 10229:1998 is used wherever hydrogen-assisted cracking poses a material or service-life risk. Typical practical applications include:

• Evaluation of linepipe and pressure equipment steels used in oil & gas and petrochemical environments.
• Qualification of welded joints, heat-affected zones and base materials for hydrogen service.
• Incoming material inspection by steel producers and suppliers to demonstrate HIC resistance.
• Quality control and failure investigation where hydrogen damage is suspected.
• Specification of material acceptance criteria in procurement documents and technical contracts.

Using a recognized standard for HIC evaluation helps reduce risk, improve material selection, and support compliance with industry quality requirements.

Who uses this standard

• Corrosion and materials engineers
• Steel manufacturers and metallurgists
• Testing and inspection laboratories
• Fabricators and EPC contractors in oil, gas and chemical sectors
• Procurement and QA/QC professionals specifying material acceptance

Related standards

EN 10229:1998 sits alongside other CEN and international standards covering corrosion testing, hydrogen embrittlement, and material qualification. Where hydrogen damage concerns overlap with other failure modes (e.g., SCC), complementary standards and industry guidelines should be consulted.