Hydrogen enhanced crack growth in 18 Ni maraging steels

The kinetics of sustained-load subcritical crack growth for 18 Ni maraging steels in high purity hydrogen are examined using crack-tip stress intensity,K, as a measure of crack driving force. Crack growth rate as a function of stress intensity exhibited a clearly definedK-independent stage (Stage II). Crack growth rates in an 18 Ni (250) maraging steel are examined for temperatures from -60°C to 100°C. A critical temperature was observed above which crack growth rates became diminishingly small. At lower temperatures the activation energy for Stage II crack growth was found to be 16.7 ± 3.3 kJ/mole. Temperature and hydrogen partial pressure are shown to interact in a complex manner to determine the apparentK _th and the crack growth behavior. Comparison of results on ‘250’ and ‘300’ grades of 18 Ni maraging steel indicate a significant influence of alloy composition and/or strength level on the crack growth behavior. These phenomenological observations are discussed in terms of possible underlying controlling processes. Formerly a Graduate Student and Research Assistant. Based on a thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of requirements for the M.S. degree in Metallurgy and Materials Science, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA.