CSA CHMC 1-2012

This standard represents test methods for evaluating material compatibility of metals for use in compressed hydrogen applications. It is the result of years of experience and, experimental and applied research and testing on the affects of high pressure hydrogen environments on metallic materials. These test results provide a basic comparison of materials performance in applications utilizing compressed hydrogen.

CSA CHMC 1-12 – Test Method for Evaluating Material Compatibility in Compressed Hydrogen Applications (Test methods for Metallics) is not intended to replace the targeted testing which may be necessary to qualify the design of a component manufactured for use in hydrogen applications.

The test methods described in this standard are intended to provide an assessment of the influence of gaseous hydrogen on a given metallic alloy’s tensile ductility and resistance to sub-critical crack growth under quasi-static or cyclic loading. Knowledge of these properties facilitates the selection and use of metallic materials in structural components that will be wetted with gaseous hydrogen.

Highlights of CSA CHMC 1-12 Include:

Pressurized hydrogen gas environments may alter the mechanical properties of virtually all common structural metal alloys. The manifestations of the effects of hydrogen environment on mechanical properties are qualitatively similar for all relevant structural metals and alloys – hydrogen reduces the resistance to crack initiation and crack growth, as well as reducing ductility.

Preface

This publication represents test methods for evaluating material compatibility of metals for use in compressed hydrogen applications. It is the result of years of experience and, experimental and applied research and testing on the affects of high pressure hydrogen environments on metallic materials. Qualification of non metallic materials will be addressed in the next edition of this standard.

Scope

This Standard provides uniform test methods for evaluating material compatibility with compressed hydrogen applications. The results of these tests are intended to provide a basic comparison of materials performance in applications utilizing compressed hydrogen. This Standard is not intended to replace the targeted testing which may be necessary to qualify the design of a component manufactured for use in hydrogen applications.

This Standard applies to metallic materials only.

If the value for measurement as given in this standard is followed by an equivalent value in other units, the first stated value is to be regarded as the specification.

All references to pressure throughout this standard are to be considered gauge pressures, unless otherwise specified.