Understanding Failure Analysis Procedure — Lesson 5

This lesson covers the general procedure for failure analysis, focusing on the collection of background information and preliminary examination of failed parts. It explains how this information helps understand various aspects related to the failed component, such as design, manufacturing methods, service conditions, and failure items. The lesson also discusses the importance of visual examination and photographing of the failed part to identify possible reasons for failure. For instance, changes in color, texture, or cross-section near the fracture can indicate the mode of fracture or exposure to different service conditions.

Video Highlights

00:37 - Importance of collecting background information for failure analysis.
04:53 - Importance of unaided eye examination in failure analysis.
15:32 - Explanation of how to identify areas of interest on the fracture surface.
21:24 - Explanation of how to use light from different directions to reveal fracture surface features.

Key Takeaways

- The first step in failure analysis is the collection of background information about the failed component.
- Preliminary examination of failed parts involves visual examination and photographing to identify possible reasons for failure.
- Visual examination can reveal major changes in the failed component at a macroscopic level.
- Photographing helps to reveal unique surface features that can suggest the cause of failure.
- The presence of impurities, changes in color or texture, and areas of interest on the fracture surface can provide clues about the cause of failure.