Failure analysis methodology is applied to the principal mechanisms by which plastics fail during service. Several important factors often associated with component failures are deficiency in design, fabrication, unsuitable service conditions, materials selection, and expended useful life. These factors are of primary consideration. The failure analysis procedure, or methodology for evaluation, is provided in a step by step approach. This includes justification for conducting a failure analysis investigation, developing a logical plan for the investigation to follow, collection of background information, the on-site inspection, sample removal techniques, laboratory testing and analysis, engineering calculations and the formulation of final report based on relevant data, analysis, and recommendations. Three substantive case studies are presented to illustrate the methodology: natural gas regulator plastic stem guide, polyester fiberglass insulators, and fiberglass rod and connector.

Subject
Materials, Microscopy, Inspection, Insulators, Failure analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectrography, Polymers, Mechanical failure, Plastics, Fiberglass, Epoxies, Polyester, Samples
Keywords:
failure analysis, plastics, polymer composites, natural gas regulator stem guide, insulator, rod and connector, case studies
© 2008 Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP). All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the prior written permission of AMPP. Positions and opinions advanced in this work are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of AMPP. Responsibility for the content of the work lies solely with the author(s).
2008
Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP)
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