Our services

Failure Analysis

Investigating the root cause of failed plastic, rubber and composite components to help you determine mitigating solutions.

Failure analysis testing

Figure 1

Fracture surface of a cracked of a HDPE pipe, showing propagation by fatigue

ABOUT THE SERVICE

How it works

Failure analysis of polymers is a comprehensive investigation undertaken to determine the root cause of a problem, using multiple analytical techniques and a deep understanding of plastic chemical and structural properties and behaviour to identify the mode of failure.

Plastic failures can occur from different circumstances, applications, and stages in the manufacturing and supply chain, and the cause of failure may not be obvious until it is tested. We understand that time is valuable, so once we obtain the required background information about the failure, we can determine the most cost-effective and most relevant analytical techniques to quickly solve the issue to help you mitigate and move on with production, supply or using the product.

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Types of failure

We can detect and analyse many types of failure

Thermal degradation
UV degradation
Mechanical stress & overload
Chemical attack
Environmental Stress Cracking (ESC)
Fatigue
Abrasion/wear
Delamination
Creep Rupture
Contamination / Inclusions
Plasticiser migration
Poor material selection
Design issues
Discolouration / Fading
Odour issues
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Failure analysis testing

Figure 2

Dye penetrant testing impact damage GRFP pipe

Failure analysis testing

Figure 3

Inclusions and sub-surface cracking

Our expertise

Australia's premier failure analysis testing

At ExcelPlas, we have over 30 years of experience of problem solving and providing expert polymer failure analysis services, having investigated thousands of plastic failures, including (but not limited to) plastic components, plastic pipes, rubbers and elastomers, composites, coatings, packaging films, membranes, medical plastics, defence components, recycled plastics, engineering plastics, and paints.

By conducting investigations into polymer properties and fractographic analysis of fracture surfaces using our state-of-the-art equipment, combined with our expert knowledge in polymer materials, polymer properties and polymer processes, ExcelPlas can help you identify the root cause and the contributing factors resulting in a product failure.

We provide a comprehensive report at the conclusion of testing outlining the tests performed, results from testing, discussion of results, and a likely root cause.

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Hear from our clients

Nancy Wei

Pact Group

We work with ExcelPlas because they consistently provide us competent plastics analysis and reliable test results with excellent customer service

Kevin Wong

Soul Legal

Dr John Scheirs and his expertise in plastics is second to none. He assisted us in a complex case where he left no stone unturned, then wrote the most comprehensive reports with persuasive influence which carried the day.

Brian Nugawela

Michael Kirby Chambers (WA)

I have been truly privileged to work with Dr John Scheirs and his team at ExcelPlas. Their thorough investigations uncovered crucial details that other experts had completely missed. I cannot recommend ExcelPlas highly enough.

Luke Roberts

Kembla

ExcelPlas has provided us with failure analysis reporting and subsequent material suitability on a viable substitute material. Both failure and suitability reports were excellent and provided clear explanation of analytical techniques used.

Alicia

Geotest

Geotest has a long history with ExcelPlas. Very professional in the testing and reporting of Geomembranes. Their knowledge in polymers is un-surpassed. We have great confidence in knowing they provide accurate and trusted results.

Attila Marta

Red Earth Engineering

Love working with the ExcelPlas team of experts who provide high quality testing, analysis and advice in all areas of geosynthetics. Find the team proactive and responsive.

Tracy D'Souza

Victorian Building Authority

Your team does a fantastic job and customer service is always brilliant.

Dan Rodrigues

SnoreMD

Excelplas are very professional & efficient to work with and can highly recommend.

Stephen Wise

Warringtonfire

Warringtonfire ACT has used ExcelPlas on several occasions for cladding related laboratory testing. Service and communication are prompt with easy to understand reports with tangible outcomes.

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What you need to know

Where are you located?

We are located in Melbourne, Australia.

You can find a map of our offices here.

Do you offer additional services that aren't listed on the website?

Yes, you can contact us directly via email to find out more about our other services.

We have 50 team members. Can you accomodate us?

No, we can't at this time.

Do you have any plans for future expansion?

Yes, keep an eye on our social media channels for future announcements.

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