Product Failure

We have provided origin and cause determinations for a variety of products from generator failures to communication tower collapses.

Steel gear being machined amid sparks and coolant spray

Meshing gears with an overheated, glowing contact point

We Find Why A Product or Component Failed

Expert product failure investigations

We have provided origin and cause determinations for a variety of products from generator failures to communication tower collapses. Our clients include manufacturers, property owners, attorneys, and insurance professionals. We work with our clients to first detail the specific goals of the investigation. Whether the focus is on determining liability, identifying if your component is a contributing cause, the circumstances surrounding the incident, or designing methods to prevent future occurrences; Engineering Specialists, Inc. will conduct a thorough analysis and provide appropriate documentation to satisfy both technical and non-technical users.

Evaluation to help determine liability
Identify if a product contributed to a loss
Find all facts surrounding an incident
Design to improve product and prevent issues
Expert witness services

Toaster on fire on an outdoor wooden bench

Types of product failures we can evaluate

Mechanical, structural, and electrical failure analysis

Mechanical Failures: Mechanical engineers analyze if components are interacting properly as intended by the design. Mechanical failure investigations are completed on a wide range of items including commercial and residential equipment and components, passenger vehicles, and agricultural machinery.

Structural Failures: Structural engineers perform scientific investigations, research and analysis to determine the causes of structural distress and/or failures. They also design and detail repairs and/or replacements of structures and components.

Electrical Failures: Forensic engineers can diagnose how an electrical component may have contributed to a product failure. Electrical events such as lightning strikes and damaging power surges are investigated.

Burned electric kettle with fire-damaged base and wiring

Detailed Forensic Evaluations

Comprehensive product failure reports

Many product failures are a result of a combination of structural, mechanical, and electrical systems, and whether they have been maintained and used as intended by the original design. If fire is a cause, or the result, of a failure, Engineering Specialists, Inc. has certified fire and explosion investigators to ensure a thorough analysis. We can deliver our findings to you in any format you request – whether you need a quick initial assessment or a comprehensive evaluation.

Quick Verbal Reports
Short-form Origin and Cause
Comprehensive Written Report

Get answers to questions surrounding your loss with a free consultation.

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Is this matter headed for litigation? The same investigation supports expert witness work, from the written report through deposition and testimony.

Expert Witness & Litigation Support

Common questions

Frequently asked questions

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What is a product failure investigation?

It's an engineering analysis of why a product or component failed. Our engineers examine the failed item, determine the cause, and document findings, from generator failures to communication-tower collapses.

What types of products and components do you investigate?

A wide range, including mechanical, structural, and electrical products and components, appliances, and equipment. We determine why the item failed and what that means for your claim or case.

How do you determine why a product failed?

We analyze the failed product, the evidence, and the failure mode using recognized engineering methods, then document a defensible conclusion about the cause.

Do you investigate appliance and equipment failures?

Yes. Appliance and equipment failures are a core part of our product-failure work, including the electrical, mechanical, and structural causes behind them.

Do you support product liability cases with expert testimony?

Yes. Our licensed Professional Engineers provide written reports and testimony at deposition and trial for product-liability matters. See our litigation support services.

Related services

Fire & Explosion InvestigationLed by NAFI-certified CFEIs

Licensed Professional EngineersPE & SE on staff

Independent Third PartyUnbiased, objective evaluations

Nationwide ResponseOmaha lab · Los Angeles office

Have a loss that needs answers?

Tell us what happened. An engineer, not a call center, will review your case.

Submit a case (877) 559-4010