When critical components, structures, or systems fail, understanding why is essential to maintaining safety, reliability, and performance. At NLR, we specialise in identifying the root cause of failures, whether they result from material defects, operational stresses, or unexpected environmental conditions. Our experts provide independent assessments, in-depth investigations, and actionable recommendations to help you prevent future failures, optimise production, and minimise costly downtime. At NLR, we don’t just identify the problem – we help you prevent it from happening again.
NLR can support you with:
- The NLR Test House, specialised in material research and engineering failure analysis on complex components
- Over 60 years of experience in aerospace and defence industry that strives for the highest safety standards
- Extensive knowledge on failure modes of materials with a specialisation in:Structural materials
- High temperature materials (Ni-, Co- and Ti-alloys)Composites and hybrid materials
- A structured failure analysis approach, including:
- Visual inspection using high-resolution imaging setups
- Fractography using optical and scanning electron microscopy (SEM)
- Cross-section analysis to determine material microstructure and defects
- Energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) for chemical composition analysis
- Electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) for crystallographic insights
- Micromechanical testing for local material behaviour assessment
- Non-destructive testing techniquesExperts that not only have the necessary know-how for interpretation of the results but can also perform simulations to gain better insight into the overall problem
- Experts that are able to combine their knowledge on materials, production techniques and problem-solving to determine the root cause of decreased production yields
- Quality assurance, traceability and reports that meet the highest international standards and provide recommendations to prevent failures in the future
