Test Laboratory: Fracture Surface Analysis

Using our fracture surface analysis, we investigate the failure behavior of metals, ceramics, and composite materials. By combining macroscopic examination, light microscopy ( LSM) evaluation, and high-resolution SEM analysis, we identify fracture mechanisms, crack causes, and material weaknesses. Fracture surface analysis is a key method for damage investigation and quality assessment.

BENEFITS

  • Identification of causes: material defects, overload, corrosion, or fatigue
  • Determining the point where a crack begins: Localization using markings (reference lines, crack edges)
  • Load reconstruction: sudden failure (brittle) or gradual failure (ductile/cyclic); determination of the frequency and magnitude of operating loads
  • Evidentiary Reliability: The microscopic details on the fracture surface constitute objective physical evidence, including for damage assessments

Typical use cases:

 

  • Root Cause Analysis for Component Failure
  • Analysis of brittle, mixed, fatigue, or ductile fracture mechanisms
  • Evaluation of fatigue cracks, initial cracks, or delaminations,
  • Investigation of Weld or Solder Joint Failures
  • Identification of material defects, inclusions, or porosity

 

Scope of Services:

  • Macroscopic examination of the fracture surface
  • Light-microscopic analysis of relevant areas
  • SEM Analysis for Visualizing Fine Structures and Crack Origins
  • EDX Analysis for the Identification of Particles or Contaminants
  • Documentation of all findings, including images

 

Result:

  • Clear identification of the fracture mechanism
  • Determining the Primary Cause of Damage
  • Assessment of material quality, manufacturing defects, or the effects of stress
  • Recommendations for Quality Assurance, Design, or Process Optimization