Failure Analysis

Failure of a metal structure or component part is a general term used to imply that in service on of the following has occurred.

• The system has become completely inoperable.
• The system is still operable but is incapable of performing its intended function.
• The system has deteriorated seriously to an extent that it has become unreliable or unsafe for continued use.

Ultimately any failure requires analysis to identify the cause and mode of failure. The objective of any failure investigation is to determine the primary cause of a failure and offer advice on corrective measures to be undertaken to prevent a repetition of the failure.

Metaltech have the resources, equipment and metallurgical expertise to undertake a full, detailed investigation and analysis of most type of metallurgical failure.

At Metaltech we have the ability to undertake all stages of the analytical process including:

• Non-destructive testing
• Mechanical Testing including: Tensile, Charpy and Izod
• Hardness Testing.
• Macroscopic examination and analysis of fracture surfaces, surface cracks etc.
• Microscopic examination and analysis.
• Metallography.
• Fractography using SEM.
• Determination of failure mechanism ie; ductile, brittle, fatigue, corrosion, wear, creep.
• Chemical analysis ie; bulk, local, coating, corrosion products.
• Analysis of fracture mechanics.
• Simulated service testing ie; torsion, wear, corrosion.
• Analysis of all evidence, formulation of conclusions, report writing and recommendations.

Over the years we have undertaken numerous failure investigations including failures of shafts, bearings, lifting equipment, springs, tool steels, mechanical fasteners, bolts, heat exchangers, bridge components, rail parts, axles and gears.

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