The automobile, textile, and shipping industries fabricate products using both conventional and advanced manufacturing technologies. Failures can occur during manufacturing or while the product is in service. SwRI has conducted failure investigations for numerous product support and manufacturing operations, studying a wide variety of components and equipment, such as:
- Springs
- Pistons
- Forged parts
- Conveyor systems
SwRI failure analysts investigate ways to improve product life with the latest technological developments. Examples include fuels and lubricants research and new coatings for improved lubrication and reduced wear. SwRI experts also refine fabrication practices, ranging from welding techniques for submersible pressure vessels to the superplastic forming of parts.