Part 3: Brittle Fracture Presented by : Shahab Zangeneh

General
Part 3 of API579 utilizes for existing carbon and low alloy steel
pressure vessels, piping, and storage tanks to avoid a catastrophic
brittle fracture failure.
This part intended to prevent the initiation of brittle fracture;
however, it does not ensure against service-induced cracks resulting
in leakage nor does it ensure arrest of a running brittle fracture.

• Failure occurs with very little plastic deformation

• Very rapid crack propagation

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Part 3: Brittle Fracture Presented by : Shahab Zangeneh

Part 3 assessment is necessary, WHEN?

• A brittle fracture assessment may be required as part of the assessment procedure of another Part in this
Standard
• A change in process operating conditions startup, shutdown and upset conditions , that increase the
possibility of low metal temperatures
• A process hazards review indicates that process temperatures start up, shutdown and upset conditions
could be lower than anticipated in the original design
• The equipment old equipments was constructed to a pressure vessel or piping code or standard that
did not have requirements for the prevention of brittle fracture similar to those in the ASME Code, Section
VIII, Division 1, 1987 or later Editions.
• The equipment item is rerated using a lower design margin
• A minimum temperature is needed for a hydrotest
• Continued operation of equipment where an active cracking mechanism remains in service
• The equipment is expected to be exposed to a stress greater than 55 MPa 8 ksi at/near ambient
temperature
• The equipment has a wall thickness equal to or greater than 50 mm 2 inches .
• The equipment has been subjected to conditions that may cause embrittlement
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