caustic embrittlement

caustic embrittlement

[′kȯ·stik im′brid·əl·mənt]

(metallurgy)

Intercrystalline cracking of steel caused by exposure to caustic solutions above 70°C while under tensile stress; once common in riveted boilers. Also known as caustic cracking.

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Scientific & Technical Terms, 6E, Copyright © 2003 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.

caustic embrittlement

A type of embrittlement in the metal at joints and the ends of tubes in steam boilers; due to the chemical composition of the boiler water; may lead to failure of the metal.

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Architecture and Construction. Copyright © 2003 by McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.