How to Avoid Hydrogen Embrittlement in Plated Parts

Wondering how to Avoid Hydrogen Embrittlement in Plated Parts?

Hydrogen embrittlement in plated parts is a phenomenon that affects high-strength steel. Hydrogen, often from pickling or plating, invades the grain structure of a high strength steel, making it brittle and subject to catastrophic failure.

Many people specify plating in accordance with ASTM B633. This specification was developed for general iron and steel articles.

To avoid hydrogen embrittlement in fasteners, plating should be performed in accordance with ASTM F1941 a specification developed specifically for mechanical fasteners.

Looking for further reading on this topic? One reference book is titled, “Hydrogen Embrittlement and Stress Corrosion Cracking.“