A recent analysis by Exponent Inc. has shed light on the causes behind a 2013 natural gas pipeline failure in Nebraska. The investigation revealed that the pipeline experienced progressive cracking at a localized hard spot, leading to its rupture. This hard spot was identified as a small region of steel that was significantly harder and stronger than the surrounding material, making it vulnerable to environmental progressive cracking. The failure was attributed to hydrogen stress cracking $(HSC.AU)$, which occurs in high-hardness steels when exposed to a corrosive environment and high stress. Exponent's experts conducted various tests, including visual inspection and metallographic examination, to reach this conclusion. This finding underscores the importance of addressing material inconsistencies to prevent future pipeline failures.
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