Engineering Forensics

Overview

At Engineering Forensics, we specialise in providing expert consultancy and investigation services related to corrosion across a wide range of materials and environments. Our team has extensive experience in assessing and advising on corrosion affecting both metallic and non-metallic materials, including complex cases involving pipework systems and structural components within cargo holds. We understand the critical impact corrosion can have on safety, operational efficiency, and asset integrity, which is why we offer in-depth evaluations tailored to each client's specific needs. In addition to desktop analysis, our specialists are available to undertake comprehensive site visits to investigate material failures in situ. Whether the issue involves metals, plastics, ceramics, or composite materials, we employ advanced techniques and industry best practices to identify the root causes of corrosion-related damage and provide clear, actionable recommendations to mitigate further risk.

We Specialise In:

General Corrosion

The uniform degradation of a material's surface, often due to prolonged exposure to moisture, chemicals, or environmental conditions. In forensic investigations, we assess the extent and cause of corrosion to determine whether it contributed to a structural or mechanical failure, supporting legal or insurance-related evaluations.

Stress Corrosion Cracking

(SCC) occurs when a material cracks due to the combined effects of tensile stress and a corrosive environment. In forensic investigations, we identify the presence and cause of SCC to determine how it contributed to component failure, often highlighting issues with material selection, design, or operating conditions.

Pitting

A highly localised form of attack that creates small, deep cavities on a material's surface, often leading to unexpected leaks or failures. In forensic investigations, we assess the cause and progression of pitting to determine whether it resulted from environmental exposure, poor maintenance, or material vulnerability.

Microbial Corrosion

(MIC) occurs when bacteria or other microorganisms accelerate the breakdown of metals, often in damp or low-oxygen environments. In forensic investigations, we identify the presence of microbial activity and assess its role in material degradation, helping determine the cause of failure and contributing environmental factors.

Plastic Degradation

This occurs when polymers break down due to environmental factors such as UV exposure, chemical attack, or prolonged stress. In forensic investigations, we analyse the type and extent of degradation to determine whether it contributed to a failure, helping identify issues with material selection, usage conditions, or manufacturing defects.

Material Failures

Overview

We Specialise In:

General Corrosion

Stress Corrosion Cracking

Erosion Corrosion

Pitting

Microbial Corrosion

Plastic Degradation

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