The Applied Technical Services Family of Companies (ATS FoC) provides specialized hydrogen embrittlement failure analysis to identify critical degradation, stressors, and unexpected metal failures in high-strength steels and alloys affected by hydrogen absorption.
Our experts determine the root cause of hydrogen embrittlement by evaluating material properties, manufacturing history, environmental exposure, stress conditions, and service loading. Our process clarifies how hydrogen entered the component and why it weakened it.
What are Common Sources of Hydrogen Absorption?
Hydrogen can enter a material during manufacturing, processing, in-service use, or exposure to hydrogen-rich environments, increasing the risk of embrittlement, cracking, and premature failure.
ATS investigates hydrogen-related failures stemming from:
- Electroplating
- Coating Operations
- Thermal Processing
- Acid Pickling and Cleaning
- Welding
- Heat Treatment
- Corrosion Reactions
- Cathodic Protection Systems
Hydrogen embrittlement typically affects high-strength steels, plated or coated components, welded structures, pressure-containing equipment, and critical parts in aerospace, automotive, and energy applications. By identifying how hydrogen was introduced and accumulated, we help manufacturers mitigate risk and improve component reliability.
What Are Common Characteristics of Hydrogen Embrittlement Failures?
Hydrogen embrittlement failures have distinct, though sometimes subtle, characteristics. Some common indicators of hydrogen embrittlement include:
- Brittle Fracture Appearance
- Sudden Crack Propagation
- Intergranular Cracking (along grain boundaries)
- Delayed Failure
- Secondary Cracking (multiple crack sites throughout the material)
- Crack Initiation at Stress Concentrators
- Threads, Notches, and Inclusions
- Surface Defects
Our Analytical Methods and Techniques
ATS combines extensive metallurgical engineering and failure analysis experience to quickly and accurately identify the root causes of hydrogen embrittlement failures and defects.
- Visual and Macroscopic Examination
- Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)
- Metallographic Analysis
- Hardness Testing
- Chemical and Coating Analysis
- Hydrogen Detection and Measurement
- Residual Stress Evaluation
Through structured failure analysis, our experts distinguish hydrogen embrittlement from other possible fracture and failure modes. Our reports confirm hydrogen embrittlement as the failure mechanism, identify hydrogen sources and contributing factors, document fracture surfaces and microstructural features, and provide actionable insights to prevent future failures.
Partner with ATS
At ATS, our growing network of failure analysis labs operates under an ISO 9001:2015-registered quality management system and hold multiple ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accreditations. We deliver clear, actionable insights to help clients improve product integrity, reduce downtime, and enhance safety.
Contact Us
Partner with ATS for your hydrogen embrittlement failure analysis needs. Complete our web form or call +1 (888) 287-5227 to get started today.
