Austenitic stainless steels may be susceptible to chloride stress 
 corrosion cracking (CSCC).  The standard 304/304L and 316/316L grades are
 most susceptible.  Increasing nickel content above 18 to 20% or the use 
 of duplex, or ferritic stainless steels improves resistance to CSCC.  
 High residual or applied stresses, temperatures above 65-71C (150-160F) 
 and chlorides increase the likelihood of CSCC.  Crevices and wet/dry 
 locations such as liquid vapor interfaces and wet insulation are 
 particularly likely to initiate CSCC in suceptible alloys.  Initiation 
 may occur in several weeks, in 1-2 years or after 7-10 years in service.

Methods of minimizing chloride stress corrosion cracking:

   1)  Improve design
          Examples:  Fill or seal crevices, paint under insulation, keep
          tensile stresses below the yield strength, shot peen, provide
          galvanic or cathodic protection.

   2)  Select a higher nickel content austenitic alloy
          Examples:  Alloy 330, 904L.

   3)  Select a ferritic stainless steel if the lower corrosion resist-
          ance is acceptable.
          Examples:  439, 26Cr 1Mo, 18Cr 2Mo

   4)  Select a duplex stainless steel
          Examples:  329, 2205.

   5)  Evaluate stress relief.
          Stress relief treatments above 425C (800F) may sensitize 
          stainless steel to intergranular corrosion, refer to main 
          menu for more information.