New challenges for the use of duplex stainless steels at low temperatures

Duplex stainless steels are often used today in the oil and gas industry because of their high strength and good corrosion resistance. New developments in arctic conditions and at high pressure require the qualification of these materials at very low temperatures. This paper will present the results of an extensive test program dedicated to assessing the low-temperature behavior of various heavy-wall duplex stainless steel forgings, hot isostatically-pressed (HIP) connectors and hot extruded pipes at temperatures down to –60 °C. Several welding processes were also evaluated. The implications for the design of duplex stainless steel production facilities will be discussed.