In order to develop cost effective solutions, it is necessary to understand 'why' a component has failed. Failure analysis can determine the nature of stresses responsible for failure, material/process deficiencies, design concerns and contributing corrosion issues.

Failure analysis is generally a destructive process. Typical steps include examination of the fracture surface, examination of the material and material testing. Tools used for the analysis include an array of optical microscopes, electron microscopes, chemical analyzers and an assortment of mechanical test equipment.

Combined with information provided by the customer, failure analysis can determine why a component failed and direct the customer towards preventing future failures.