Applications Guide for Determining the Yield Strength of In-Service Pipe by Hardness Evaluation : Final Report

This Guide describes a complete process for conducting field hardness testing to estimate the yield strength of pipeline steels. The process is non-destructive so it is suitable for in-situ testing on operating pipelines, at pipe storage facilities, or various other locations. It also allows for process variations that are suitable for application in different situations and conditions that may be encountered on a pipeline right-of-way and elsewhere. Field hardness testing is not a “one size fits all” methodology where a single hardness testing methodology is suitable for application in all situations that can be encountered.

Preface

Chapter 1 : Introduction
Chapter 2 : Scope
Chapter 3 : Hardness Testing Background
Chapter 4 : Field Hardness Tester Types, Attributes, Application Criteria and Codes
Chapter 5 : Pre-Assessment
Chapter 6 : Pre-Assessment Data Evaluation
Chapter 7 : Hardness Tester Selection
Chapter 8 : Procedure Qualification and Documentation
Chapter 9 : Project Staff/Test Technician Qualification Requirements
Chapter 10 : Pipe Sample Size and Lower Bound Hardness Statistical Estimates
Chapter 11 : Hardness Test Locations on Pipe
Chapter 12 : Pipe Surface Preparation
Chapter 13 : Testing Calibration, In-Process Evaluation, and Uncertainty
Chapter 14 : Field Hardness Data Evaluations
Chapter 15 : Hardness Conversion to Yield Strength
Chapter 16 : Hardness Conversion Validation
Chapter 17 : DOT/State Special Permit (Waiver) Petition Requirements

References
Appendix A : Yield Strength from Hardness – Additional Background
Appendix B : Field Hardness Tester -- Detailed Information
Appendix C : Selected Industry Codes/Standards
Appendix D : Hardness Test Locations Within a Pipe Length
Appendix E : Hardness Test Procedure Qualification Record (PQR)
Appendix F : Hardness Test Technician Qualification Record (TQR)
Appendix G : Statistical Methods Background
Appendix H : Field Hardness Testing Data Sheet
Appendix I : Effect of Pipe Pressure on Rebound Hardness Tester Results
Appendix J : Surface Roughness Considerations
List of Tables
List of Figures