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Book Chapter
The Role of the Engineering Expert in Product Liability Litigation
Available to PurchaseSeries: ASM Handbook
Volume: 11A
Publisher: ASM International
Published: 30 August 2021
DOI: 10.31399/asm.hb.v11A.a0006832
EISBN: 978-1-62708-329-4
... Abstract The purpose of this article is to assist the reader in understanding the role that an engineering expert witness plays in evaluating incidents related to product liability, so that he or she may become better acquainted with the role that an engineer plays in such litigation...
Abstract
The purpose of this article is to assist the reader in understanding the role that an engineering expert witness plays in evaluating incidents related to product liability, so that he or she may become better acquainted with the role that an engineer plays in such litigation. The topics covered are admissibility of expert opinions, how to evaluate data, factual evidence, mandatory and voluntary standards, physical evidence, medical records, scientific literature, design decisions evaluation, environment of use, user's contribution, reports of opposing experts, report of findings, and deposition and trial testimonies.
Book Chapter
Litagation Analysis Related to a Fragmented Fishhook
Available to PurchaseSeries: ASM Failure Analysis Case Histories
Publisher: ASM International
Published: 01 June 2019
DOI: 10.31399/asm.fach.homegoods.c9001631
EISBN: 978-1-62708-222-8
... testing. Engineering expert litigation Manufacturing standards Products liability Quality control Metal Brittle fracture Often the first reaction of an expert or lawyer receiving a case from a client is simply a question or two. How can a strategy be developed to work this issue...
Abstract
Failure analysis of a fishhook that broke during retrieval is described. Although the broken hook was discarded, several companion hooks were analyzed (chemistry, microhardness, metallographic cross section, and tensile properties) as were comparable products made by other hook manufacturers. Tensile test data indicated that the companion hooks were significantly different from hooks made by other manufacturers. The hooks broke into several pieces and failed with little or no plastic deformation, while hooks made by other manufacturers plastically deformed and did not break during testing.
Series: ASM Handbook Archive
Volume: 11
Publisher: ASM International
Published: 01 January 2002
DOI: 10.31399/asm.hb.v11.a0003505
EISBN: 978-1-62708-180-1
..., a sales representative, an insurance consultant, an attorney in products liability, outside “experts” (be sure they are truly expert!), and so on. Members of the design review board should not be direct participants in day-to-day design and development of the product under review, but the engineers should...
Abstract
This article discusses the three legal theories on which a products liability lawsuit is based and the issues of hazard, risk, and danger in the context of liability. It describes manufacturing and design defects of various products. The article explains a design that is analyzed from the human factors viewpoint and details the preventive measures of the defects, with examples. It presents four paramount questions relating to the probability of injury which are asked even when one executes all possible preventive measures carefully and thoroughly.
Book Chapter
Data Review, Conclusions, and Report Preparation
Available to PurchaseSeries: ASM Handbook
Volume: 11
Publisher: ASM International
Published: 15 January 2021
DOI: 10.31399/asm.hb.v11.a0006762
EISBN: 978-1-62708-295-2
... engineers, failure analysts cannot cross the line and issue opinions counter to what they know based on the data, regardless if the report is likely to be involved in litigation. It is incumbent upon the failure analyst to form unbiased conclusions based on the evidence and not be swayed or influenced...
Abstract
As a failure investigation progresses, the time arrives when the data and results of the various testing and analyses are compiled, compared, and interpreted. Data interpretation should be relatively straightforward for results that align well. However, interpretation can be challenging when results from various tests seem contradictory or inconclusive. Regardless, conclusions must eventually be drawn from the data. This article discusses the processes involved in reviewing data, formulating conclusions, failure analysis report preparation and writing, and providing recommendations and follow-up with appropriate personnel to prevent future failures.
Book Chapter
Failure of a High-Speed Steel Twistdrill
Available to PurchaseSeries: ASM Failure Analysis Case Histories
Publisher: ASM International
Published: 01 June 2019
DOI: 10.31399/asm.fach.machtools.c0089429
EISBN: 978-1-62708-223-5
... twistdrill. (a) End view. (b) Top view. A second drill from the same lot was also examined. There was carbide banding but to a significantly lesser degree. Hardness was measured as 63 to 64 HRC at both the flute edge and in the bulk of the drill. Plaintiff's expert concluded that the failed drill...
Abstract
The failure of a high speed steel twist drill which caused injury to the user was investigated thoroughly to settle a legal suit. The drill was being used to remove a stud that broke in the vertical wall of a metalworking machine (upsetter) after drilling a pilot hole. The drill had shattered suddenly with a bang which caused a chip to be dislodged and cause the injury. A large nonmetallic inclusion parallel to the axis near the center of the drill was revealed in an unetched longitudinal section. Carbide bands in a martensitic matrix were indicated in an etched sample. It was concluded by the plaintiff's metallurgist that the failed drill was defective as the steel contained nonmetallic inclusions and carbide segregation which made it brittle. It was revealed by the defendant that the twist drill met all specifications of M1 high-speed steel and investigated several other drills without failure to prove that the failure was caused by use in excessive conditions. It was revealed by examination that the point of the broken drill was not the original point put on at manufacture but came from regrinding. Both technical and legal details have been discussed.
Series: ASM Handbook Archive
Volume: 11
Publisher: ASM International
Published: 01 January 2002
DOI: 10.31399/asm.hb.v11.a0003518
EISBN: 978-1-62708-180-1
... require the assessment of a materials engineer. This is because many design engineers are not very familiar with the natural variations within a material grade. Evaluation of the adequacy of a material or process specification is often best performed by a materials engineer. Thus, materials experts...
Abstract
Failure analysis is a process that is performed to determine the causes or factors that have led to an undesired loss of functionality. This article describes some of the factors and conditions that might be considered when approaching a failure analysis problem. It focuses on the key principles, objectives, practices, and procedures of failure analysis. The article provides guidelines on the preparation of a protocol for a failure analysis. It also demonstrates the proper approaches to failure analysis.
Series: ASM Handbook
Volume: 11
Publisher: ASM International
Published: 15 January 2021
DOI: 10.31399/asm.hb.v11.a0006754
EISBN: 978-1-62708-295-2
... of a material or process specification is often best performed by a materials engineer. Thus, materials experts have been in an excellent position to gain experience in the failure analysis process. The advent of more powerful and widely available scanning electron microscopes has helped provide a more fact...
Abstract
Failure analysis is a process that is performed in order to determine the causes or factors that have led to an undesired loss of functionality. This article is intended to demonstrate proper approaches to failure analysis work. The goal of the proper approach is to allow the most useful and relevant information to be obtained. The discussion covers the principles and approaches in failure analysis work, objectives and scopes of failure analysis, the planning stages for failure analysis, the preparation of a protocol for a failure analysis, practices used by failure analysts, and procedures of failure analysis.
Series: ASM Handbook Archive
Volume: 11
Publisher: ASM International
Published: 01 January 2002
DOI: 10.31399/asm.hb.v11.a0003520
EISBN: 978-1-62708-180-1
... the attention of the investigator, because they reduce production efficiency, waste critical materials, and increase costs. In some instances, they cause considerable damage or personal injury. Finally, failures can result in costly litigations. The need to develop and encourage the science (and art...
Abstract
This article outlines the basic steps to be followed and the range of techniques available for failure analysis, namely, background data assembling, visual examination, microfractography, chemical analysis, metallographic examination, electron microscopy, electron microprobe analysis, X-ray techniques, and simulations. It also describes the steps for analyzing the data, preparing the report, preservation of evidence, and follow-up on recommendations.
Book Chapter
How to Organize and Run a Failure Investigation
Available to PurchaseSeries: ASM Handbook
Volume: 11
Publisher: ASM International
Published: 15 January 2021
DOI: 10.31399/asm.hb.v11.a0006755
EISBN: 978-1-62708-295-2
.... While the part, along with any evidence on it, is being flooded with coolant during cutting, a meeting is held with all possible experts concerned, or none of the experts, and a single theory as to the root cause of the failure is developed. Sometimes there is no meeting, because the engineer thinks he...
Abstract
This article discusses the organization required at the outset of a failure investigation and provides a methodology with some organizational tools. It focuses on the use of problem-solving tools such as a fault tree analysis combined with critical thinking. The discussion covers nine steps to organize a good failure investigation. They are as follows: understand and negotiate goals of the investigation, obtain a clear understanding of the failure, identify all possible root causes, objectively evaluate the likelihood of each root cause, converge on the most likely root cause(s), objectively and clearly identify all possible corrective actions, objectively evaluate each corrective action, select optimal corrective action(s), and evaluate effectiveness of selected corrective action(s). Common problems detrimental to a failure investigation are also covered.
Series: ASM Handbook
Volume: 11
Publisher: ASM International
Published: 15 January 2021
DOI: 10.31399/asm.hb.v11.a0006772
EISBN: 978-1-62708-295-2
.... Reconstructing an accident often requires consulting with highly specialized experts to address specific aspects of the failure. For example, an automotive accident investigation may point to the failure of a driveshaft U-joint. The automotive accident investigator would benefit from consulting a metallurgist...
Abstract
Failure analysis is generally defined as the investigation and analysis of parts or structures that have failed or appeared to have failed to perform their intended duty. Methods of field inspection and initial examination are also critical factors for both reconstruction analysts and materials failure analysts. This article focuses on the general methods and approaches from the perspective of a reconstruction analyst. It describes the elements of accident reconstruction, which have conceptual similarity with the principles for failure analysis of material incidents that are less complex than a large-scale accident. The approach presented is that the analysis and reconstruction is based on the physical evidence. The article provides a brief review of some general concepts on the use and limitations of advanced data acquisition tools and computer modeling. Legal implications of destructive testing are discussed in detail.
Book Chapter
An Overview of Aircraft Accident Investigation and Component Failures
Available to PurchaseSeries: ASM Handbook
Volume: 11A
Publisher: ASM International
Published: 30 August 2021
DOI: 10.31399/asm.hb.v11A.a0006821
EISBN: 978-1-62708-329-4
..., weather, or other potential factors in aircraft failures. Metallurgical and materials engineering is only one of many disciplines that are important in the field of aviation accident investigation. It is essential for metallurgical and materials engineers to work with pilots, human factor experts...
Abstract
This article focuses on failure analyses of aircraft components from a metallurgical and materials engineering standpoint, which considers the interdependence of processing, structure, properties, and performance of materials. It discusses methodologies for conducting aircraft investigations and inspections and emphasizes cases where metallurgical or materials contributions were causal to an accident event. The article highlights how the failure of a component or system can affect the associated systems and the overall aircraft. The case studies in this article provide examples of aircraft component and system-level failures that resulted from various factors, including operational stresses, environmental effects, improper maintenance/inspection/repair, construction and installation issues, manufacturing issues, and inadequate design.
Book Chapter
Failure Analysis of Open End Wrenches Containing Forging Defects
Available to PurchaseSeries: ASM Failure Analysis Case Histories
Volume: 3
Publisher: ASM International
Published: 01 December 2019
DOI: 10.31399/asm.fach.v03.c9001785
EISBN: 978-1-62708-241-9
... was attempting to loosen exhaust system bolts on a large diesel engine using the open end portion of a 3/4-inch (19 mm) wrench. The open end wrench was required because the design of the exhaust system prevented the use of a box end wrench. When the worker applied his full strength, the jaw of the wrench...
Abstract
A maintenance worker was injured when his 3/4 in. (19 mm) open-ended wrench failed, fracturing in overload fashion along the jaw. The failed wrench was unavailable for testing, but an identical one that failed in the same manner was acquired and subjected to hardness, chemistry, SEM, and metallurgical analyses. SEM imaging revealed microvoid coalescence within the fracture zone. The microvoids were flat and smooth edged indicating insufficient bonding. In addition, a cross sectional sample, mounted and etched using alkaline chromate, revealed an oxygen-rich zone in the jaw. It was concluded that the failures stemmed from forging laps in the jaw that broaching failed to remove.
Book Chapter
Organization of a Failure Investigation
Available to PurchaseSeries: ASM Handbook Archive
Volume: 11
Publisher: ASM International
Published: 01 January 2002
DOI: 10.31399/asm.hb.v11.a0003519
EISBN: 978-1-62708-180-1
... relevant. Some of the specifications are: E 620. Standard Practice for Reporting Opinions of Technical Experts E 678. Standard Practice for Evaluation of Technical Data E 860. Standard Practice for Examining and Testing Items That Are or May Become Involved in Litigation E 1020. Standard...
Abstract
This article reviews the most common reasons for failures and the purpose of a failure investigation. It discusses the nine steps for the organization of a good failure investigation. The three basic tools that are helpful in any failure investigation, namely, a fault tree, a failure mode assessment chart, and a technical plan for resolution chart, are reviewed. The article briefly describes failure investigation pitfalls and concludes with information on the other common tools used for failure investigation and root cause determination.
Book
Series: ASM Handbook
Volume: 11A
Publisher: ASM International
Published: 30 August 2021
DOI: 10.31399/asm.hb.v11A.9781627083294
EISBN: 978-1-62708-329-4
Book Chapter
Modeling and Accident Reconstruction
Available to PurchaseSeries: ASM Handbook Archive
Volume: 11
Publisher: ASM International
Published: 01 January 2002
DOI: 10.31399/asm.hb.v11.a0003523
EISBN: 978-1-62708-180-1
.... Interdisciplinary Nature Reconstruction of an accident rarely deals with only a single engineering discipline. In most cases, the issues involved in the accident are not limited to materials, mechanical, chemical, or structural engineering. The issues often extend to other engineering disciplines as well...
Abstract
This article focuses on the general methods and approaches from the perspective of a reconstruction analyst and includes discussions relevant to materials failure analysts at the incident scene. The elements of accident reconstruction are described. These have conceptual similarity with the principles for failure analysis of material incidents that are less complex than a large-scale accident. The article provides a brief review of some general concepts on the use of modeling which can be a very powerful tool for information pertaining to the reconstruction of an accident where the model can be a physical, mathematical, or logical representation of a physical system or process.
Book Chapter
Low Cycle Thermal Fatigue and Fracture of Reinforced Piping
Available to PurchaseSeries: ASM Failure Analysis Case Histories
Publisher: ASM International
Published: 01 June 2019
DOI: 10.31399/asm.fach.steel.c9001149
EISBN: 978-1-62708-232-7
... understanding of the complex engineering issues involved in the failure analysis and redesign effort. This better understanding in turn enhanced the attorneys' ability to present the expert testimony at the trial in a readily comprehensible manner. The outcome of the lawsuit was a court determination...
Abstract
A large diameter steel pipe reinforced by stiffening rings with saddle supports was subjected to thermal cycling as the system was started up, operated, and shut down. The pipe functioned as an emission control exhaust duct from a furnace and was designed originally using lengths of rolled and welded COR-TEN steel plate butt welded together on site. The pipe sustained local buckling and cracking, then fractured during the first five months of operation. Failure was due to low cycle fatigue and fast fracture caused by differential thermal expansion stresses. Thermal lag between the stiffening rings welded to the outside of the pipe and the pipe wall itself resulted in large radial and axial thermal stresses at the welds. Redundant tied down saddle supports in each segment of pipe between expansion joints restrained pipe arching due to circumferential temperature variations, producing large axial thermal bending stresses. Thermal cycling of the system initiated fatigue cracks at the stiffener rings. When the critical crack size was reached, fast fracture occurred. The system was redesigned by eliminating the redundant restraints and by modifying the stiffener rings to permit free radial thermal breathing of the pipe.
Book Chapter
Introduction to Failure Analysis and Prevention
Available to PurchaseSeries: ASM Handbook
Volume: 11
Publisher: ASM International
Published: 15 January 2021
DOI: 10.31399/asm.hb.v11.a0006753
EISBN: 978-1-62708-295-2
... Abstract This article briefly introduces the concepts of failure analysis, including root-cause analysis (RCA), and the role of failure analysis as a general engineering tool for enhancing product quality and failure prevention. It initially provides definitions of failure on several different...
Abstract
This article briefly introduces the concepts of failure analysis, including root-cause analysis (RCA), and the role of failure analysis as a general engineering tool for enhancing product quality and failure prevention. It initially provides definitions of failure on several different levels, followed by a discussion on the role of failure analysis and the appreciation of quality assurance and user expectations. Systematic analysis of equipment failures reveals physical root causes that fall into one of four fundamental categories: design, manufacturing/installation, service, and material, which are discussed in the following sections along with examples. The tools available for failure analysis are then covered. Further, the article describes the categories of mode of failure: distortion or undesired deformation, fracture, corrosion, and wear. It provides information on the processes involved in RCA and the charting methods that may be useful in RCA and ends with a description of various factors associated with failure prevention.
Book Chapter
Practices in Failure Analysis
Available to PurchaseSeries: ASM Handbook Archive
Volume: 11
Publisher: ASM International
Published: 01 January 2002
DOI: 10.31399/asm.hb.v11.a0003524
EISBN: 978-1-62708-180-1
..., and service is an essential engineering process for continual improvement in product reliability. This article describes the general procedures, techniques, and precautions employed in the investigation and analysis of metallurgical failures that occur in service. The stages of investigation are discussed...
Abstract
This article describes the preliminary stages and general procedures, techniques, and precautions employed in the investigation and analysis of metallurgical failures that occur in service. The most common causes of failure characteristics are described for fracture, corrosion, and wear failures. The article provides information on the synthesis and interpretation of results from the investigation. Finally, it presents key guidelines for conducting a failure analysis.
Book Chapter
Analysis and Prevention of Environmental- and Corrosion-Related Failures
Available to PurchaseSeries: ASM Handbook
Volume: 11
Publisher: ASM International
Published: 15 January 2021
DOI: 10.31399/asm.hb.v11.a0006782
EISBN: 978-1-62708-295-2
.... That is, certain metals and alloys become essentially inert and function as though they were noble metals such as platinum and gold. Fortunately, from an engineering standpoint, the metals most susceptible to this type of behavior are the common engineering and structural materials, including iron, nickel, silicon...
Abstract
Corrosion is the deterioration of a material by a reaction of that material with its environment. The realization that corrosion control can be profitable has been acknowledged repeatedly by industry, typically following costly business interruptions. This article describes the electrochemical nature of corrosion and provides the typical analysis of environmental- and corrosion-related failures. It presents common methods of testing of laboratory corrosion and discusses the processes involved in the prevention of environmental- and corrosion-related failures of metals and nonmetals.
Book Chapter
Failure Analysis of Welded Structures
Available to PurchaseSeries: ASM Handbook
Volume: 11A
Publisher: ASM International
Published: 30 August 2021
DOI: 10.31399/asm.hb.v11A.a0006814
EISBN: 978-1-62708-329-4
... and for technical discussions, terms such as discontinuities , defects , and flaws are more commonly used; such terms are discussed in this section. Failure analysis may be performed for the purpose of litigation. The terminology used in courts by lawyers may be different from that used by engineers...
Abstract
Welded connections are a common location for failures for many reasons, as explained in this article. This article looks at such failures from a holistic perspective. It discusses the interaction of manufacturing-related cracking and service failures and primarily deals with failures that occur in service due to stresses caused by externally applied loads. The purpose of this article is to enable a failure analyst to identify the causative factors that lead to welded connection failure and to identify the corrective actions needed to overcome such failures in the future. Additionally, the reader will learn from the mistakes of others and use principles that will avoid the occurrence of similar failures in the future. The topics covered include failure analysis fundamentals, welded connections failure analysis, welded connections and discontinuities, and fatigue. In addition, several case studies that demonstrate how a holistic approach to failure analysis is necessary are presented.
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