Structural Failure Analysis Laboratory
Many steps are performed in a complete structural failure analysis investigation. Each step in our process (below) draws upon multiple disciplines and utilizes equipment furnished by the Materials Laboratory at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. Testing and analysis can also be performed at UDRI on campus as needed.
Background Information
- Material and processing specifications
- Service history
- Literature
- Photographic documentation
- Stereomicroscopy
Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE) (Performed by government and on-site contractor.)
- Ultrasonics
- X-ray
- Dye penetrant
- Eddy current
- Magnetic particle
- Thermography
- Optical microscopy (grain size, ply layup)
- Image analysis (layer thickness, constituent percentages)
- Hardness testing (macro and micro)
- Thermal analysis (CTE, Tg, degree of cure)
- Chemical composition (performed by government and on-site contractor)
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Stereomicroscopy
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Optical microscopy (cracking, delaminations)
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Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) (fracture origin, direction, and mode)
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Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) (contamination, elemental mapping)
Evaluation Report Documentation
Digital photography is used to provide photographic documentation of the part in the as-received conditions and as the part is sectioned for further analysis.
Stereomicroscopy is performed to identify areas needing further analysis.
Cross-sectional examinations using optical microscopy to characterize the material’s microstructure and constituents. Image analysis may be used in conjunction to measure constituent dimensions.
Hardness testing may be performed on the macro and micro scale.
Thermal analysis may be used to measure a material’s CTE, Tg, and degree of cure.
Stereomicroscopy is used to provide the engineer with an overall view of the fracture surface.
Optical microscopy is used to examine cross-sections to identify internal anomalies and cracking.
Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) examinations provide information concerning the fracture origin, direction of growth, and mode.
Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) identifies and maps elements.
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