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Failures of Structures and Components by Metal-Induced Embrittlement

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Abstract

The basic aspects of liquid–metal embrittlement (LME) and solid metal-induced embrittlement (SMIE) are concisely reviewed, followed by case histories of failures involving (i) LME of an aluminium-alloy pipe by mercury in a natural-gas plant, (ii) SMIE of a brass valve in an aircraft-engine oil-cooler by internal lead particles, (iii) LME of a cadmium-plated steel screw from a crashed helicopter, (iv) LME of a cold-formed steel stiffener during galvanizing, and (v) LME of a steel gear by a copper alloy from an overheated bearing. These case histories illustrate how failures by LME and SMIE can be diagnosed and distinguished from other failure modes. The underlying causes of the failures and how they might be prevented are also discussed. Several beneficial uses of LME in failure analysis are then outlined.

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Notes

  1. The optimum exposure conditions depend sensitively on the alloy and grain structure and, hence, trials are required.

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Acknowledgements

The author would like to thank (i) R. Coade, D. Coldham, and H. Moss for their major contributions and micrographs regarding the failure of the aluminium alloy inlet nozzle, (ii) G. Redmond and R. Byrnes for information and micrographs concerning the failure of the brass valve from an aircraft-engine oil-cooler, (iii) M. Broadhurst for information and samples regarding the collapse of the grain silo, and (iv) I. Wills for information and samples connected with the failure of the planetary gears.

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  1. Defence Science and Technology Organisation, P.O. Box 4331, Melbourne, VIC, 3001, Australia

    S. P. Lynch

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Lynch, S.P. Failures of Structures and Components by Metal-Induced Embrittlement. J Fail. Anal. and Preven. 8, 259–274 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11668-008-9124-y

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