Ferrous materials

	Grain size
	Effective case depth
	Depth of surface defect
	Non-metallic inclusion content
	Macroscopic examination of steels
	Graphite type and distribution in cast irons
	Segregation of carbides

Microstructural tests on non-ferrous alloys

	Grain size
	Depth of cladding
	Depth of surface defects
	Porosity content.

Failure Investigation

Assignments are taken from automotive, oil and gas to general manufacturing, we can work to understand why products and/or processes are failing to meet your needs. Inter-disciplinary teams from technologists, professional engineers to material scientist can be pulled together as appropriate.

Cause of failure are determined using state-of-the-art analytical, mechanical procedures microstructures. A combination of analysis and physical testing locates problems and provides recommendations for solutions. A through examination of the failed part is done Instruments such as XRF are used at Spectro Labs as powerful tools. Tests to simulate environmental and physical stress that may have played a role in the failure are done.

Selection and testing of alternative products and/or procedures that will significantly improve performance are recommended if required.