BS ISO 10587:2000

What is ISO 10587 – Test for hydrogen embrittlement of metallic coatings about? 

ISO 10587 is an International Standard that discusses metallic and other inorganic coatings. The main aim of ISO 10587 is to provide best industry testing methods to demonstrate the ability of coatings to protect substrates from deteriorating.  

ISO 10587 specifies a method of determining, on a statistical basis, the probability of the existence of hydrogen embrittlement or degradation in: 

• A batch of barrel electroplated, autocatalytic plated, phosphated or chemically processed threaded articles 
• A batch of rack plated threaded articles or rods 

ISO 10587 is applicable to threaded articles and rod made from steel with an actual tensile strength W 1 000 MPa (corresponding hardness values: 300 HV, 303 HB or 31 HRC) or to surface-hardened threaded articles or rods. It is not applicable to fasteners. 

Although the test method is capable of indicating those articles that are embrittled to the extent defined it does not guarantee complete freedom from embrittlement. 

ISO 10587 does not relieve the plater, processor, or manufacturer from imposing and monitoring suitable process control. 

Note 1: The use of inhibitors in acid pickling baths does not necessarily guarantee avoidance of hydrogen embrittlement. 

Note 2: Annex A provides guidance on sources of introduction of hydrogen into threaded articles. 

Who is ISO 10587 – Test for hydrogen embrittlement of metallic coatings for? 

ISO 10587 on hydrogen embrittlement of metallic coatings is useful for: 

• Metallic coating manufacturers 
• Quality control and testing bodies 
• Product design engineers 
• Mechanical engineers 

Why should you use ISO 10587 – Test for hydrogen embrittlement of metallic coatings? 

Metallic coatings contain a metallic element or alloy that can be applied by using a sprayer, electrochemically, chemically or mechanically. These coatings are applied on equipment requiring a shiny or glossy appearance and protection from sunlight, corrosion and oxidation. In this regard, hydrogen embrittlement occurs when metals become brittle as a result of the introduction and diffusion of hydrogen into the material. To prevent this, it is necessary that the metallic coatings prevent the absorption of atomic hydrogen such that its ductility and overall mechanical properties do not deteriorate.  

Thus, ISO 10587 provides tests to determine if the metallic-coated and uncoated externally-threaded articles and rods are susceptible to hydrogen embrittlement. 

The test method in ISO 10587 has two main functions: 

• When used with a statistical sampling plan it can be used for lot acceptance or rejection 
• It can be used as a control test to determine the effectiveness of the various processing steps including pre- and post-baking treatments to reduce the mobile hydrogen in the articles or rod 

As a result, ISO 10587 can help in preventing cracking or catastrophic brittle failures, hydrogen-induced delayed brittle failure, hydrogen stress cracking, or hydrogen embrittlement of metallic and other inorganic coatings.