Materials Engineer how-to

How to Investigate a Part Failure

Failure analysis finds root causes.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Failure analysis finds root causes. In short: gather; photograph; examine, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Gather history.

  2. Photograph the part.

  3. Examine the fracture.

  4. Test material properties.

  5. Find root cause.

  6. Recommend fixes.

Safety reminders for materials engineers

  • Follow lab safety
  • Wear PPE
  • Handle chemicals safely
  • Follow radiation safety for XRD

ABET · PE license · FE exam · CAD · Specification · Tensile strength: see the full materials engineer glossary.

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