Introduction
In industries where pressure equipment operates under corrosive and hydrogen-rich environments, material reliability directly affects safety and operational continuity. Carbon Steel SA 516 Grade 65 HIC Steel Plates are specifically designed to perform in such demanding conditions. These plates are engineered to resist hydrogen-induced cracking, making them a preferred material for sour service applications where conventional carbon steel may fail over time.
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Carbon Steel SA 516 Grade 65 HIC Steel Plates are manufactured using carefully controlled steelmaking practices that focus on purity, consistency, and structural stability. Hydrogen-induced cracking is a major concern in environments containing hydrogen sulphide, as hydrogen atoms penetrate steel and create internal cracks. To counter this, Grade 65 HIC plates are produced with low sulphur content, controlled inclusions, and a refined microstructure that minimizes crack initiation points.
Grade 65 offers higher strength than Grade 60 while maintaining excellent toughness and weldability. This balance allows the material to withstand higher operating pressures without sacrificing resistance to cracking or brittleness. The plates are subjected to rigorous HIC testing, ensuring they meet industry expectations for long-term performance in sour service environments.
These steel plates also perform well under fluctuating temperatures and pressures, maintaining dimensional stability and mechanical strength. Their predictable behavior during fabrication makes them suitable for forming, welding, and machining into complex pressure-retaining components. This combination of strength, toughness, and crack resistance makes SA 516 Grade 65 HIC plates a dependable choice for critical industrial equipment.
Key Features of Carbon Steel SA 516 Grade 65 HIC Steel Plates
Strong resistance to hydrogen-induced cracking
Controlled chemical composition with low sulphur levels
Higher strength compared to Grade 60
Excellent notch toughness and ductility
Good weldability for pressure vessel fabrication
Reliable performance in sour service conditions
These features ensure durability and safety in aggressive operating environments.
Types of SA 516 Grade 65 HIC Steel Plates
Carbon Steel SA 516 Grade 65 HIC plates are available in several forms to meet varied application needs, including:
Normalized HIC Plates – Enhanced toughness and uniform grain structure
As-Rolled HIC Plates – Suitable for standard sour service use
NACE-Compliant HIC Plates – Designed for hydrogen sulphide environments
Custom Thickness Plates – Manufactured as per project specifications
This variety allows flexibility in design and application across industries.
Applications of Carbon Steel SA 516 Grade 65 HIC Steel Plates
These plates are widely used in industries that demand strength and resistance to hydrogen-related damage, such as:
Oil and gas processing units
Pressure vessels and reactors
Petrochemical and chemical plants
Separators and storage tanks
Heat exchangers and boilers
Offshore and onshore energy infrastructure
Their proven performance helps reduce maintenance risks and extend equipment life.
Conclusion
Carbon Steel SA 516 Grade 65 HIC Steel Plates deliver a dependable combination of strength, toughness, and resistance to hydrogen-induced cracking. Their ability to perform safely in sour service environments makes them a trusted material for pressure equipment and critical industrial applications. By choosing SA 516 Grade 65 HIC plates, industries ensure enhanced safety, long-term reliability, and consistent performance under demanding operating conditions.