Applied Technical Services offers plastic and polymer failure analysis services for clients who need to assess their materials’ durability. Our engineers and analysts have extensive experience determining whether material failure results from unfavorable service conditions, poor product design, incorrect material selection, improper manufacturing processes, or other factors.
Polymer Tests
Manufacturers can rely on ATS to assess polymer durability upon exposure to thermal, mechanical, or environmental stressors. Our multidisciplinary capabilities allow us to examine all of a polymer’s characteristics when conducting failure analysis. Evaluations such as the Elmendorf tear test supply insight into a polymer’s durability and lifespan, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the material’s characteristics. Our experts conduct a wide array of tests that aid in polymer failure analysis, including:
- Tensile Strength of Films and Fibers
- Filler Content, Dehydration/Desolvation, and Decomposition Analysis (TGA)
- Adhesion Strength
- Flexural Strength
- Lap Shear Strength
- Modulus by Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA) or Thermomechanical Analysis (TMA)
- Durometer Hardness
- Composition Analysis including Plasticizers, Additives, UV Inhibitors, Stabilizers, and Antioxidants
- Compression Set for Durability and Elasticity
- Flammability
- Melt Flow Rate
- Izod and Charpy Impact Testing
- Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (CTE) by TMA
- Polymer Identification (FT-IR)
- Accelerated Weathering (UV degradation)
- Heat Aging and Thermal Stability
- Heat Deflection Temperature Under a Load (HDT)
- Gloss and Color
- Inherent/Intrinsic Viscosity
- Dielectric Strength/Breakdown
- Glass Transition (Tg), Melting point, Crystallinity, and Heat Capacity (DSC)
Our skilled failure analysts can efficiently and effectively determine the root cause of polymer failure using years of prior experience.
Our Metallurgy Services
ATS metallurgists consult with clients to determine the complete scope of every project. Our services assist clients with more than failure analysis; we also provide support for quality assurance, litigation support, and reverse engineering. We conduct all tests according to industry standards such as:
- ASTM A247
- ASTM B487
- ASTM E384
- ASTM E18
- ASTM B748
- ASTM E112
- ASTM E10
- ASTM E3
We also test to equivalent ISO standards and specialized procedures.
ATS Excellence
For more than fifty years, Applied Technical Services has provided specialized testing and inspection services to our clients. We offer quick turnarounds for detailed, accurate reporting, and our responsive experts can answer all our clients’ questions. If you need polymer failure analysis, contact ATS today. We take a closer look.
