316 ss for use in high pressure saltwater experiment
316 ss for use in high pressure saltwater experiment
(OP)
I am planning a corrosion experiment that will be conducted at high pressure (2000-8000 psi). As part of the experiment I need to have small diameter tubing, fittings and valves that will contain synthetic seawater at high pressure. Will probably use 1/16" or 1/8" diameter tubing and compatible fittings and valves. 316 stainless fittings and tubing are readily available from suppliers of chromatography equipment, but I am concerned about their use and reliability when carrying seawater. The seawater (synthetic) will have normal oxygen concentrations of about 5 ppm , but will generally be stagnant. Temperature is room temperature or lower. I am trying to minimize the use of dissimilar metals when they come in contact.
Is 316 stainless adequate or not? I have seen cautionary notes about its use in stagnant seawater especially regarding pitting.
What is a better choice of material?
Is 316 stainless adequate or not? I have seen cautionary notes about its use in stagnant seawater especially regarding pitting.
What is a better choice of material?





RE: 316 ss for use in high pressure saltwater experiment
RE: 316 ss for use in high pressure saltwater experiment
RE: 316 ss for use in high pressure saltwater experiment
Refer to a galvanic series chart for metals, then check your budget and material availability.
(Platinum->Gold->Titanium->Stainless,etc.)
RE: 316 ss for use in high pressure saltwater experiment
1. Pitting and crevice corrosion will be the concerns, and I would be more concerned about crevice corrosion than pitting, for two reasons: (a) most likely mechanical joints will be used, which introduce crevices, and (b) crevice corrosion will likely lead to a leak before pitting will.
2. Synthetic seawater will not be as severe as natural seawater. How much better????????? I'll make a WAG of 50% better, but that's just a WAG based on data I recall from many, many years ago.
3. Is the temperature ambient? (obvious reasons).
All in all, given the use of syntheric seawater, and the short time frame, I wouldn't expect a problem.
RE: 316 ss for use in high pressure saltwater experiment
Steve Jones
Petroleum Development Oman LLC
Muscat
Sultanate Of Oman
RE: 316 ss for use in high pressure saltwater experiment
You should look for an alloy that actually works in seawater.
A 6%Mo stainless is good. You might have an easier time with a Ni-Cr-Mo "C" type alloy (276, 622, 59, or 686). Or you could use Ti.
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Corrosion never sleeps, but it can be managed.
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