Stress orientated Hydrogen Induced cracking (SOHIC) is a manifestation of sulfide stress
cracking (SSC) in C-Mn steels by a mechanism involving the linking of planar cracks normal to the
primary propagation direction of the crack. It has been known for many years, and the solution has been
considered to be the use of hydrogen induced cracking (HIC) resistant steels. Work by the Materials
Properties Council has, however indicated that HIC resistant steels may be more susceptible to SOHIC.
This raises questions about both the most appropriate steels, and test methods for evaluating them
Published literature has been surveyed, and information pertaining to the mechanisms of
SOHIC, with particular reference to the effects of material, fabrication, and service conditions on the
risk of cracking, has been extracted. A critical review of this information, along with published
information on test methods and results, and information on industrial experience including service
failures due to SOHIC, has allowed conclusions to be drawn and recommendations to be made on
materials selection, fabrication and testing for resistance to SOHIC.