This Bulletin provides the basis to determine an MPT curve for pressurized equipment based on a

fracture mechanics approach consistent with API 579-1/ASME FFS-1, Part 9, 2016 Edition. The
approach is an extension of that used in WRC 528 to create the toughnes exemption curves for the
ASME B&PV Code, Section VIII, Division 2. The fracture toughness estimation in this Bulletin is
based on the Wallin Fracture Toughness Master Curve. The fracture toughness estimation includes
temper embrittlement, hydrogen effects on fracture toughness, and considers both fast and slow
fracture in hydrogen environments so that MPT curves can be generated for high-pressure hydrogen
processing vessels constructed from carbon steel, 1.25Cr-0.5Mo, 2.25Cr-1Mo. 2.25Cr-1Mo-V, 3Cr-
1Mo and 3Cr-1Mo-V with and without austenitic stainless steel cladding. Loading rate dependent
effects may also be included. The MPT curves are based on membrane stress from pressure and
residual stresses in accordance with API 579-1/ASME FFS-1, Annex 9D, and the effects of cladding.
Solutions are provided for two reference flaws in cylindrical and spherical shells: t/4 and t/8 depth
with an aspect ratio of six. Provisions are also provided to incorporate the effects of flaws found
during in-service inspection into the MPT curve. In general, the MPT curve developed using this
Bulletin permits a lower or colder MPT curve than that achievable using the VIII-1 or VIII-2 Codes
while maintaining a definable safety margin, which results in increased operational flexibility for
startup operations. The Warm Prestress (WPS) effect that describes the effect of a prior loading on
the subsequent effective fracture toughness is also included. Finally, a procedure is provided for
using the MPT model to generate exemption and temperature reduction curves that may be
incorporated into construction codes. Example problems are provided to demonstrate the
technology.