Standard and Vanadium enhanced 2.25Cr1Mo plate steels (ASTM A387 gr. 22 and A542 type D) are
commonly used for the manufacturing of heavy reactors for use in petroleum refining plants.
These reactors are fabricated from heavy wall plates, forged shells (thickness up to 300-350mm), forged
nozzles and fittings. They are subjected to thermal cycles (stop and go) and to severe service conditions (high
pressure, high hydrogen partial pressure). A primary concern for end-users is defining the Minimum Pressurizing
Temperature (MPT). This temperature is the lowest temperature at which the vessel can be repressurized after
shutdown. This minimum temperature insures no risk of brittle fracture, and is defined by fracture mechanics
and/or CVN approaches and calculation.
This paper presents the methodology of MPT determination and the impact of ageing and exposure to
hydrogen on material mechanical properties and on the value of the MPT. The MPT determination method is
explained by using a virtual pressure vessel that is representative of reactor vessels found in petroleum refineries.
Keywords: Hydrogen, 2.25Cr1Mo, hydrogen embrittlement, Charpy test, tensile properties, fracture toughness