Type II High Pressure Equipment Certification Practice Test

Stress corrosion cracking is a significant failure mechanism primarily impacting metallic structures, particularly in high-pressure equipment. It occurs when a material experiences simultaneous tensile stress and a corrosive environment, leading to the formation of cracks.

In environments where there are factors such as chlorides or other corrosive agents, even relatively low levels of stress can initiate and propagate cracks. The presence of tensile stress exacerbates the material’s susceptibility to these cracks, as it facilitates the initial formation and further growth of cracks over time. This failure mechanism can lead to catastrophic failure if not properly managed, making it crucial for industries operating high-pressure systems to monitor and mitigate these risks.

The other options, while relevant to high-pressure equipment, do not accurately describe stress corrosion cracking. For instance, the method of welding high-pressure components and maintenance techniques focus on creation and upkeep rather than failure mechanisms. Similarly, strengthening metal components does not relate to the corrosive aspects that define stress corrosion cracking.