4.1 It is important to be able to determine the extent of pitting, either in a service application in which it is necessary to predict the remaining life in a metal structure, or in laboratory test programs that are used to select the most pitting-resistant materials for service. The purpose of the study is crucial in determining the appropriate examination and evaluation steps.

4.2 Some typical purposes of laboratory tests include, but are not limited to, evaluating performance of alloys, determining whether an alloy is resistant to the environment, evaluating how environmental conditions including corrosion inhibitor affect or prevent pitting, and evaluating whether a lot of metal is sufficiently resistant for its use in a particular application or environment.

4.3 Some typical purposes of field studies include, but are not limited to, determining if pits are likely to grow and cause leak or release of process fluid, and assisting a determination of whether to replace or repair damage from pits (remaining life assessment).

1.1 This guide covers the selection of procedures that can be used in the examination and evaluation of pitted metals. These procedures include both nondestructive and destructive approaches.

1.2 The procedures covered in this guide include those that may be used in laboratory evaluations of corroded metal specimens and field examinations and inspections.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses after SI units are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.3.1 Exception—In X1.2.1, mils per year (MPY) are regarded as standard for the target corrosion rate.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.