The failure of pipes, tubes or fittings, particularly within a building, can be a damaging and costly event. Identifying the cause can indicate necessary corrective actions and a resolution of the issue. Our team of engineers and scientists have many years'' experience of investigating failures including pinholes, leaks and cracks in:

• copper pipes
• brass fittings
• mild and stainless steel pipes including thin walled tube
• welds
• cast iron pipes
• plastic pipes
• plastic fittings

The examination of a pipe or fitting failure requires a number of analytical steps tailored to identify the factors involved. Surface features both internal and external would be examined to provide information about where and how the problem originated, for example identifying solvent degradation of plastic. The chemical composition of any corrosion product would be analysed to highlight an external or internal environmental issue. Major causes of failures can include:

• installation issues, for example poor control of soldering, welding or solvents
• inadequate environmental control
• incorrect material/design choice
• or a combination of several factors

Our independent laboratories offer a confidential and competitive service, expert support and advice together with comprehensive reporting.