Hydrogen Embrittlement
Stress Relief

Pre and post process treatments are often key to a long-lasting and effective surface finish. Diligent preparation and post-process measures can prevent corrosion, damage, and other forms of wear down the line. One of those types of wear is called Embrittlement.

Embrittlement occurs in metals when they absorb foreign materials into their surface causing them to lose ductility. The loss of ductility on the surface of the metal causes it to become brittle, forming holes throughout the surface and underlying layers of the metal. Embrittlement can eventually lead to a component’s loss of functionality, cracking, or breaking. One of the most common kinds of embrittlement is Hydrogen Embrittlement.

Hydrogen Embrittlement can occur at a variety of different points during the metal manufacturing process, but most typically during wielding or storage. Hydrogen Embrittlement can be detrimental to components load bearing abilities and overall functionality. Luckily, through AOTCO’s Hydrogen Embrittlement Stress Relief post processes, embrittlement can be prevented.