Why this matters
If your project is bound for the Norwegian Continental Shelf or any operator that aligns with NORSOK practice, the words "M-650 qualified" appear all over the material requisition. NORSOK M-650 is a manufacturer qualification standard, not a material standard. It verifies that the mill or forge can repeatably produce duplex stainless steels, high-alloy austenitics, nickel alloys and titanium with the metallurgy demanded by harsh North Sea service.
Scope comparison
| Aspect | NORSOK M-650 |
|---|---|
| Issuing body | Standards Norway, on behalf of the Norwegian petroleum industry |
| Purpose | Qualify a specific manufacturer to produce a specific material grade in specific product forms and dimensions |
| Materials covered | Duplex and super-duplex stainless steel (all grades, all product forms), high-alloy austenitic stainless steel, nickel-base alloys (typically castings), titanium alloys (typically castings) |




