Articles

Brass alloy plumbing components: useful facts and failure mechanisms

Brass alloys are widely used to produce plumbing components, and typically perform well for years in most applications. It is not uncommon for potable water plumbing systems inside a residence to contain many brass fittings that are generally forgotten and unproblematic. From time to time, leaks are associated with brass plumbing components even if they were sourced from domestic suppliers with good reputations for durability and quality. This article presents a brief overview of brass alloys and the major failure mechanisms observed when components made from commercial brass alloys leak.

Photographs, printing and forensic engineering: from pixels to proof!

Exploiting all material evidence to reconstruct an accident or a loss means above all observing, investigating, recording. So here we are. From its first foundations to the definition that we know today, forensic engineering uses all scientific methods to bring together the elements needed to complete an investigation. What could be more logical than starting our new infographic series on the world's greatest inventions with printing and photography.

Forensic Analysis of Polymer Failure in Plastic Components

Over the past decades, the use of plastics in manufacturing has increased significantly, as they offer several advantages over traditional metal components. However, the failure mechanisms of plastics are not as well understood as those of metals and require specialized knowledge, equipment, and methods. With water damage on the rise and costing millions of dollars each year in insurance claims, a closer look at the intricate world of the polymer failure analysis might shed some light on some of the culprit. In this article our expert provides an overview of the common issues found behind polymer component failures.

DRONES: The Forensic Investigator’s Eye in the Sky

Going where the eyes of the investigators can’t. Getting an unequaled vantage point to take aerial photos and videos of a site. Designing a 3D model of a site based on aerial images to allow a virtual visit to the location and fine tune the investigation. These are the reasons why CEP Forensic has been using drones for the last four years to enhance our forensic investigations. We sat down with our forensic investigator, Caitlin Ringland to talk about this topic.

CAT Loss Claims: When the Evacuation Ends

Wildfires can cause total devastation to properties, and widespread evacuations are often ordered to ensure the safety of those living and working in the immediate area of the fire. When returning home following a wildfire evacuation, most owners inspect their property carefully and may identify damage that was actually a pre-existing issue that simply had not been identified before. In CEP Forensic’s experience in dealing with post-wildfire insurance claims, our experts have identified some of the most common property-related issues following a wildfire evacuation.

 

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