What We Delivered

Three samples were sent to Lucideon for testing which included an unused reference component, a failed component, and a sample of raw polymer material. Lucideon proposed to explore the characteristics of the fracture site, as well as the differences in the thermal degradation properties of the as-molded components compared to raw materials and unfinished components. Specifically, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) were proposed to evaluate fracture surfaces, reversible and irreversible thermal transitions, degradation characteristics and occurrence of oxidation, respectively. Through this analysis, Lucideon’s team of polymer experts and analytical chemists were able to prove that the current melt process conditions were too high and degraded the material. Consequently, exposure to chemicals during the assembly process accelerated the formation of crazing and crack propagation that ultimately caused the component to fail under tension.

Value to The Client

Lucideon’s experts were able to identify a suitable mold temperature for the component which was verified by process testing/changes & simulated assembly. Lucideon’s quick response and analysis allowed the customer to resume their assembly preventing any further delays saving the customer time and money.