Austenitic stainless steels are susceptible to chloride stress corrosion
 cracking (CSCC).  The standard 304/304L and 316/316L grades are most
 susceptible.  Increasing nickel content and decreasing carbon content
 improves resistance to CSCC.  High residual or applied stresses, temperatures
 above 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.  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 stainless steel
          Examples:  Alloy 20, 904L, alloy 800

   3)  Select a ferritic stainless steel with adequate general corrosion
          resistance.
          Examples:  439, 26Cr 1Mo, 18Cr 2Mo, 29-4C

   4)  Select a duplex stainless steel
          Examples:  329, 2205, 255

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