Failure of metallic structures: An engineering analysis

Failure analysis is a branch of engineering science which is quite demanding with respect to the knowledge and experience of the investigator but which is on the other hand also very rewarding. The general motive for failure analysis clearly is to eliminate losses, to prevent similar cases arising in the future and to contribute to futher developments in engineering sciences. The author, who provided a tutorial on failure analysis at a symposium of the International Society for Technology, Law and Insurance (ISTLI) in Wil, Switzerland, provides here an overview of the engineering approach to the basics of failure analysis and some of its more important aspects. This will enhance engineers' understanding of the requirements and demonstrate the most important problems and working methods.