Guidance for Material Selection Based on Static and Dynamic Mechanical Properties at Sub-Zero Temperatures

It is well known that material properties undergo significant changes with temperature. In order to meet extreme environmental requirements for ships and offshore structures operating in Arctic regions, the effect of temperature on material behavior needs to be considered. In recent studies, significantly higher fatigue strength was observed for base materials and welded joints in comparison to room temperature. Fatigue strength increased even for temperatures far below the allowed service temperature based on fracture toughness results; however, sub-zero temperatures fatigue data are scarce and the effects of steel strength and welding type on fatigue strength changes are unknown. Material selection for ships and offshore structures is typically based on empirical Charpy and fracture toughness relations at the design temperature, minus a safety margin. Thus, this study presents material test results including fatigue tests of butt-welded joints, tensile test, and Charpy impact toughness tests at room and sub-zero temperatures of different structural steel types. Additionally, the effect of welding techniques and steel strength are discussed. The results can be used to extend design approaches for ships and offshore structures subject to sub-zero temperatures and to improve material selection for ships and offshore structures operating in Arctic regions.