Mechanical Failure Analysis

Oilfield, chemical processing, mining, sawmills and logging all expose components and machines to unusual and harsh environments. Failure can be due to mishandling, improper operation, faulty parts, installation errors, material flaws, and exposure to contaminants to name only a few issues. 

We are a mechanical engineering consultants with real field experience, not just table top design experience or investigation training in school. Our investigators understand the real life loading and operations that cause failures. We identify the relevant materials and issues that may need further investigation rather than freezing every broken piece.  This saves time and money in assessing equipment at a scene.

We use the same rational processes that form the backbone of all Root Cause Analyses (RCAs) as the base for our investigations. We can work within the framework of pre-packages investigation software or can provide our own independent framework depending on the client’s needs. 

We are familiar with Process and Instrumentation diagrams (P&ID) and Process Flow Diagrams (PFD) and use them in conjunction with process data, when available through trending or historian data services, to augment our investigations. Lube oil analysis and vibration analysis results are also commonly used in our investigations.