Failure Analysis
Investigating the root cause of failed plastic, rubber and composite components to help you determine mitigating solutions.
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.
We can detect and analyse many types of failure
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.
Our failure analysis process in action
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.
What you need to know
This is largely defined by your testing requirements but we are equipped to manage samples of all sizes, in small to large quantities. It is important to provide samples that are good represenations and statistically significant.
If it is decided that a staged approach is best we will provide you with a plan to tackle lower hanging fruit that gradually inform how effective other complex testing will be before make large commiments. Testing results will be provided at each defined stage with our interpretations and recommendations for your consideration.
Our expertise covers a very wide range solid materials including:
- Polymers (such as polyolefins, polyesters, nylons, polyurethanes, PVC, engineering polymers, thermosets)
- Recycled products
- Elastomers
- Rubbers
- Coatings
- And much much more, please see our range of tested products!
Yes, our reports provide detailed and comprehensive root cause analysis to identify the most likely failure causes.
Contact us and please provide a brief description of your failure situation, along with any relevant documentation and photos. We will then offer a budget quote or range for your consideration.
