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What Are HIC Tested Plates and Why Are They Essential in Acid Environments?
HIC (Hydrogen Induced Cracking) Tested Plates are specially certified steel plates that undergo hydrogen exposure testing as per NACE TM0284 or similar standards. These plates are engineered to resist cracking in wet H₂S and acidic environments, particularly in equipment like pressure vessels, heat exchangers, and storage tanks exposed to hydrogen sulfide or sour gases. In industries like oil refining, petrochemicals, and fertilizer manufacturing—where H₂S presence is high—using regular boiler plates can lead to micro-cracks and sudden failure. HIC tested plates mitigate this risk, offering enhanced reliability, safety, and compliance with international project specs.
Note: These properties are validated post-HIC testing to ensure compliance with sour service standards.
Low-sulfur, low-carbon steel plates with carefully controlled phosphorus, sulfur, and hydrogen diffusivity:
| Element | Typical Content (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbon (C) | 0.18 max |
| Manganese (Mn) | 0.90 – 1.60 |
| Phosphorus (P) | ≤ 0.025 |
| Sulfur (S) | ≤ 0.010 |
| Silicon (Si) | 0.15 – 0.40 |
Plates may include small additions of aluminum or calcium to improve sulfide shape control and reduce HIC susceptibility.
All HIC tested plates are normalized or Q&T (as per spec), followed by:
We export HIC certified plates to:
HIC stands for Hydrogen Induced Cracking. It’s a test used to determine a plate’s resistance to internal cracking due to hydrogen exposure in sour service.
Hydrogen Induced Cracking Test.
These values indicate the extent of crack length and surface area. Lower values mean better resistance.
Not all SA 516 Gr 70 plates are HIC-resistant—only those tested and certified to NACE TM0284 are.
Standard range: 6 mm to 150 mm. Custom cut sizes also available.
Yes, they are ideal for sour service, especially in upstream oil & gas.
Yes, every plate is shipped with Mill Test Certificate including HIC test data.
Yes, we offer cut-to-size with edge prep as per your drawing.
Yes, due to additional testing and stricter controls, they cost more—but they reduce risk of failure.
Yes, our plates are used in projects by L&T, EIL, KNPC, ADNOC, and many more.
Get a Quote for HIC Plates – Cut to Your Size
Whether you need a single plate or a large project order, Hindustan Steel Corporation can supply HIC-tested boiler plates tailored to your requirements—delivered fast, tested thoroughly, and priced competitively.
+91-22-66159018
+91-9820944724
sales@hindustansteel.com hindustansteel1@gmail.com
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DSQ Plates are used for tank building, acid/chemical storage, ducting, and electroplating lines. Their low carbon, high ductility, and anti-crack profile make them perfect for processes involving heavy forming and corrosive environments. Browse our application tabs to choose DSQ by use-case.
We supply DSQ plates in grades that comply with IS 2062, ASTM A283, and industry-specific dead soft steel specs. From thin sheets to thick, press-ready plates—get the right grade with correct mechanicals and test reports.
DSQ (Dead Soft Quality) Steel Plates may not have a globally unified standard like structural steels, but they comply with select Indian and international specifications that focus on soft, formable, and acid-resistant applications.
At Hindustan Steel Corporation, we have built a trusted name in supplying DSQ (Dead Soft Quality) Steel Plates to both domestic and international buyers involved in galvanizing, pickling, electroplating, and tank fabrication industries.
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We’ve Comparison including: what is DSQ plate, where to use it, what is its thickness range, and how it compares with standard steel.
Not sure whether to choose DSQ over IS 2062 or High Tensile? Read our DSQ blogs for real use-cases in galvanizing, chemical plants, and pickling units. Know the difference before placing bulk orders.
We understand that engineering, procurement, and QA teams need technical clarity before placing an order.
+91-22-66159018
+91-9820944724
sales@hindustansteel.com hindustansteel1@gmail.com
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