Failure Analysis – Forensic Engineering

Metallurgical Failure Analysis

Failure analysis is performed by systematically examining, testing and analyzing the failure, starting with gathering information about the component, its application and history, followed by a detailed visual examination, then nondestructive testing (magnetic particle test, dye penetrant test, low magnification stereoscope, etc.), leading to high magnification examination and destructive testing (such as: scanning electron microscopy (SEM), sectioning the sample for Metallographic micro analysis, Hardness testing, Chemical Analysis, Mechanical testing, etc.).

The following are a few of the wide variety of industries from which we serve. Click on the picture or the link below each photo to see several examples of forensic engineering investigations and metallurgical failure analysis that we have provided.

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Metallurgical Failure Analysis Case Studies

Motorsports Industry

MTi’s expert metallurgists and their vast failure analysis experience are a key component in achieving a race teams winning season.

Power, Utilities, and Boilers

Metallurgical failure analysis provided by MTi can help minimize and eliminate down time.

Water Systems

We provide failure analysis and testing for a variety of companies in the plumbing, heating, and cooling industries.

Chemical and Pharmaceutical Industries

Metallurgical failure analysis and metal corrosion testing help minimize down time.

Heat Exchangers

Failures are very costly or even catastrophic for a business. We can help minimize downtime.

Automotive, Transportation and Marine Industries

Our Metallurgical Analysis helps keep the transportation industry moving.

Machinery

Production line or heavy machinery failures can be costly even devastating for business.

Manufacturing & Construction Industries

Production line failures can be not only very costly but can be catastrophic for a business.

Our Forensic Process

A typical forensic metallurgical failure analysis includes the following eight steps:

1. Collect failed component background information and service history.
2. Perform a visual examination of failed and related components in the as-failed condition. Perform low magnification examinations using a stereomicroscope to locate critical areas for further analyses or testing. Take dimensional measurements as necessary.
3. Analyze the fracture or degraded surfaces utilizing a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) at high magnification.
4. Using the SEM, determine the failure mode and origin/initiation site. Investigate the initiation site for unusual conditions or contributing factors. Identify and characterize the failure mechanism (fatigue, embrittlement, overload, type of corrosion, etc.) Investigate for unusual stress risers.
5. Select, prepare, examine and analyze the cross-section microstructure in the region of failure/fracture initiation. Analyze conditions of manufacturing reflected in microstructure and investigate potential flawed conditions. Investigate material quality and heat treat conditions.
6. Perform a chemical composition analysis of the failed component (alloy and impurities), and coatings or platings.
7. Perform mechanical and other testing (hardness, strength, toughness, etc.).
8. Analyze all gathered evidence and test results to formulate an engineering opinion and conclusion.

Through a careful extensive forensic examination and evaluation of the evidence gathered from the above analysis, the pieces of the puzzle are fit together in a conclusive manner and a root cause of failure is identified.

All evidence and forensic failure analysis results are photographically documented and presented in a report, which interprets and explains each finding in a clear and concise format. We also provide: reports of evidence in support of resolving insurance claims, expert witness testimony, and litigation support in product liability and accident cases.