Failure Investigation & Root Cause Analysis

Failure Investigation & Root Cause Analysis

Unexpected failures can lead to costly downtime, safety hazards, and operational disruptions. Our multidisciplinary team uses scientific methodologies, metallurgical testing, and field expertise to identify the underlying causes of material, coating, or system failures.


We provide comprehensive investigation services that address failures in metallic and non-metallic materials, coatings, and corrosion protection systems — delivering actionable insights to enhance reliability and integrity.

Failure Investigation & Root Cause Analysis




Our Failure Investigation Services

Metallurgical Failure Analysis

  • Fractography, microstructural, and hardness examination
  • Identification of cracking mechanisms (fatigue, SCC, hydrogen embrittlement, etc.)
  • Chemical composition verification and microanalysis
  • Determination of manufacturing or fabrication defects

Corrosion Failure Investigation

  • Assessment of corrosion mechanisms such as pitting, crevice, galvanic, MIC, or erosion-corrosion
  • Evaluation of process conditions and corrosive media
  • Surface and deposit analysis using advanced lab techniques
  • Recommendations for mitigation and material improvement

Coating & Lining Failure Analysis

  • Examination of coating delamination, blistering, or underfilm corrosion
  • Evaluation of surface preparation, application, and curing defects
  • Adhesion, thickness, and holiday testing
  • Specification review and corrective coating recommendations

Pipeline & Asset Integrity Failures

  • Investigation of leaks, ruptures, and wall thinning
  • Analysis of internal/external corrosion and weld failures
  • Failure pattern mapping and corrosion rate estimation
  • Integration with cathodic protection and inspection data

Root Cause Analysis & Corrective Action Planning

  • Systematic RCA using methods such as 5-Why, Fishbone Diagram, or Fault Tree Analysis
  • Identification of contributing design, material, or operational factors
  • Development of corrective and preventive actions (CAPA)
  • Technical reporting with clear findings and recommendations
  • Our Investigation Process
  • Typical Failure Modes
  • Benefits & Outcomes
1

Data Collection & Site Inspection

Comprehensive gathering of operational data, maintenance records, and on-site evidence collection including photography, sampling, and environmental assessment.

2

Laboratory Analysis

Advanced metallurgical testing including microscopy, spectroscopy, mechanical testing, and chemical analysis to determine failure mechanisms and material properties.

3

Root Cause Identification

Systematic analysis using proven methodologies to identify underlying causes, contributing factors, and failure sequences through technical evaluation.

4

Reporting & Recommendations

Detailed technical reporting with clear findings, supporting evidence, and actionable recommendations for corrective and preventive measures.

5

Follow-Up Support

Ongoing technical support during implementation of recommendations, verification of effectiveness, and assistance with preventive program development.