Sustained-load cracking – what is sustained-load cracking?

SLC is a metallurgical phenomenon that occasionally develops in cylinders made of 6351 aluminum alloy, as well as in other types of pressure vessels and structural components under stress for sustained periods of time.
SLC has occurred in cylinders manufactured by various companies, including Luxfer.
Cylinders that have been mechanically damaged, over-filled or abused are more susceptible to SLC.
SLC is not a manufacturing defect; it is a phenomenon inherent in the metal itself.

Posted by Luxfer