Stainless Steels, H2S Exposure, Durability

[PipesSteve]

I would like to be directed to credible sources that address the uses of stainless steels in sanitary sewer environments. Specifically, the effect of H2S, Hydrogen Sulfide, and how it affects stainless steels, grades, etc.

 

[EdStainless]

http://www.nickelinstitute.org/index.cfm/ci_id/13099/la_id/1.htm

This is light on tech info, but there are some references.
A good read would be "Corrosion Control in the Chemical Process Industries", C.P.Dillon. Mine is 2nd ed and ISBN 1-877914-58-4. There is a chapter on H2S.
The short answer is that austenitic stainless grades that are not sensitized are fully resistant to hte direct effects of H2S.

A much greater concern is microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC), and particularly the role of sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB). The entire issue of bio-fouling is involved.

Another big issue for SS is the presence of chlorides. What part of the country are you in? Coastal areas have significant chloride levels in the ground and water. Parts of the country that see snow tend to salt roads and you can see very high cl levels in winter/spring runoff.

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Corrosion never sleeps, but it can be managed.

http://www.trenttube.com/Trent/tech_form.htm