When a metal component or assembly fails, visual damage only tells part of the story. Metallurgical testing and inspection determine the root cause of a failure, enabling informed decision-making when it comes to material selection, manufacturing processes, and product performance.
Need to find out how, why, and where it’s possible for a metal component, product, or system to fail? Metallurgical analysis is the first place to start.
How Does Metallurgical Testing Detect Failures?
Metallurgical testing is like predicting the future. It proactively identifies weaknesses in materials or products, helping to prevent failures and improve results in the field.
Failures can result from a number of contributing factors. Two of the most common are corrosion and stress, or a combination of the two. By subjecting a part or component to destructive testing techniques, a metallurgical lab can test how it withstands these factors and where potential failures may occur.
If an in-field failure occurs, metallurgical failure analysis is often required after the fact to provide scientific evidence for insurance or legal documentation. Once the root cause of failure is determined, recommendations can be made to prevent future problems.
Which Industries Benefit from Metallurgical Failure Analysis?
Metallurgical failure investigation is used across a wide range of industries. At American Testing Services, our highly skilled staff of metallurgists has many years of experience supporting the aerospace, U.S. Department of Defense weapons programs, automotive, and commercial sectors.
In addition to failure analysis, metallurgical inspection is used for material selection, quality assurance, routine testing, and research and development.
Because metallurgical testing provides such valuable, actionable insights, any industry that relies on the performance and reliability of metal components under stress or environmental effects can benefit.
Looking for a Metallurgical Lab?
American Testing Services offers professional metallurgical testing and failure analysis as a stand-alone service or as a complement to any of our non-destructive testing services.
Our metallurgical lab is accredited by A2LA for ISO/IEC 17025; AS9100, and certified as a General Electric S-400 facility. Backed by decades of experience, our metallurgy team delivers prompt, accurate results that help your team make informed decisions. Ready to get started with metallurgical testing? Get in touch with our team today to request a quote. We’re here to help you find the answers you need and the peace of mind you deserve.