Liquid Metal Embrittlement (LME) has been a well-known concern for many years, but the definition of when it is a risk and details on how to address this risk seem to vary throughout the refining industry. This paper first summarizes general literature on the different combinations of materials (applicable to the refining industry) which are susceptible to LME. Next, it compiles LME case histories from literature and conference minutes to help gather data on the conditions causing the risk. Some of the recent reported failures provide important tips on prevention steps and highlight how exposures to even small amounts of liquid metals can be very detrimental. Results of an informal survey of the practices to resist LME from various oil companies are included, along with a compilation of how LME is addressed in various industry standards such as API 661 on air coolers. Lastly, suggestions for future practices are given.

Subject
Piping, Tubes, Industries, Welding, Copper alloys, Mercury, Metals, Crude, Monel alloys, Copper, Zinc, Aluminum alloys, Liquid metal embrittlement
Keywords:
Liquid Metal Embrittlement, Zinc, Galvanizing, Aluminum, Mercury, Coatings, Cracking, High Temperature, Fire Damage Assessment, Flixborough
© 2023 Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP). All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the prior written permission of AMPP. Positions and opinions advanced in this work are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of AMPP. Responsibility for the content of the work lies solely with the author(s).
2023
Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP)
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