An ongoing issue with new construction is the occurrence of  window defects. Most newly installed windows are insulating glass (IG). These windows are have two panes with an air gap, and therefore, have 4 glass surfaces (surface #1 is on the building exterior) that may have defects. In addition, many have a coating on one […]

Read Consulting Materials Failure Laboratory was asked to examine a failed coffee mug. This mug was advertised as a “solid soda-lime clear glass mug”. Unfortunately, soda-lime glass is a poor choice for mugs that are filled with hot liquids such as coffee and tea. Its high coefficient of thermal expansion makes it vulnerable to failure. […]

Read Consulting has lengthy experience aiding food processing companies by examining contaminants found by their customers. In many cases the product (such as tomato sauce) is packaged in polymer lined #10 steel cans. Obviously, the customer opens the cans and uses the contents for cooking. If the can opener isn’t sharp or is improperly aligned, […]

While being used by a customer, a restaurant chair arm broke causing the customer an injury. Read consulting was asked to determine why one side of the arm detached from the seat. It was determined that the arm had separated previously, and it was repaired with a weld. In this case, welding was done without […]