Laboratory Services

FFA’s facility includes two laboratories. This space is utilized by our engineers as well as representatives from multiple parties for joint laboratory examinations.

The lab space creates a controlled environment that facilitates the careful examination of evidence and artifacts collected during scene exams. Often times, macro and micro photography are part of the documentation process.

Additionally, FFA is the only area firm to own and use a CT Scanner to conduct non-destructive, three-dimensional image rendering of retrieved evidence for more accurate failure causation determination.  

Offices, library and conference room facilities are also a key component of the FFA location in Syracuse, NY.

Feel free to browse the photo gallery below.

Laboratory Testing of All Types are Undertaken at FFA

Exams ranging from 2-20 attendees have been hosted and conducted at FFA.  The lab space is used by our in house experts for our work, as well as by outside parties with a paid laboratory tech and usage fee.  Please contact Mallorie for information.

Samples of the Testing Done In Our Lab Includes:

  • Electric Testing – DMM, milliohm, insulation, circuit breaker operation, AC/DC supplies, with single and three phase power onsite.
  • Mechanical Testing – Metrology for precision bore and external measurements.
  • Thermal Testing – Thermocouples/meters with data logging capability, pyrophoric oven for materials testing
  • Gas Testing – Manometer, flow meteters, regulated supplies, and nitrogen for specialized testing. Capability to test from 1″ WC to 500psi for leak or flow rates.
  • Water Testing Equipment – Hydrostatic testing of pressure vessels
  • Proof of Concept Testing
    • Also known as “hypothesis testing” this is a complete or partial simulation of a situation that was alleged to have occurred in the location of the loss. Hypothesis testing is a key part of the scientific method and be utilized to disprove or verifiy a theory.

Sample photos of a drop light in cellulose insulation are shown. Tests range from simple burn tests (with an on-site reusable burn pod) to simulated electric circuit failure or gas component failure. A breaker test set up is used for testing circuit protection of all different manufacturers of breaker panels.

Evidence Storage

Evidence Is Stored in Our On-site, Heated and Alarmed Warehouse

FFA has an on-site, alarmed, climate controlled, secure warehouse to safely store evidence collected during site examinations.

Each individual artificat is packaged (where applicable) and labelled before storage. Artificats are also independently inventoried twice a year. Our evidence storage facility further utilizes on-site exterior units for materials with odor or hazard issues. These units have 24 hour surveillance monitoring.

X-Ray Analysis

Examples of X-Rays Showing Internal Damage and Position of Breakers

Below are two examples of evidence that was radiographically (Xray) analyzed by FFA.

On the left is a failed heating element from a dishwasher. On the right are two brands of circuit breakers in all three states. Xrays are captured at a partner facility in our business park prior to and during laboratory examinations.

Our Process

FFA prides itself on quick response times. We realize it’s crucial to get to the scene as soon as possible to collect evidence before changes are made or repairs are done. Our typical process includes:

Site Exam

Research & Testing

Evidence Examinations

Written Report

(Upon Request)

Notice:

The information provided by Forensic and Failure Analysis (FFA) to clients, colleagues, potential clients, and others for educational and informational purposes only. No explicit or implied content accuracy or applicability guaranteed to the reader for a specific case or circumstance.  This information is not intended to provide expert opinions or create a legal relationship. You should not take, or refrain from taking actions based on its content.