Introduction to failure analysis

Failure analysis, or root cause analysis (RCA), is a comprehensive investigation to determine failure mechanisms and root causes in the event of a component or equipment failure.

The root cause analysis procedure involves:

• Collecting and analysing existing data.
• Conducting appropriate laboratory tests on relevant samples collected from the incident site.
• Developing appropriate corrective and/or preventive action.

This analysis sequence is then presented clearly and concisely for our client to generate a practical recommendation.

Failure analysis detects the root cause of the failure mechanism and recommends preventive measures to avoid repeat occurrences.

Whether you are a manufacturer or an operator, failures that contribute to downtime can affect your business operations and profitability. In worst-case scenarios, failures may even pose a risk to employees, the public and the environment, possibly resulting in reputational damage and lawsuits.

It would often seem more efficient and productive to replace the failed component or equipment and move on. However, if the root cause of the failure were not identified, the replaced component or equipment would be an accident waiting to happen (if the operating conditions remain the same).

To underscore the importance of failure analysis for your business, consider the key advantages your company can reap through its implementation, which can be summarised as follows:

• Ensure availability and safety
• Minimise risk
• Benefit from an expert partnership
• Protect your reputation
• Draw upon global support from experts such as from TÜV SÜD
• In subsequent posts, we will dive deeper into typical failures in the various industries and how we analyse these failures.

Know more about our failure analysis testing services.