Property Loss ~ TECHNICAL INVESTIGATION


Technical investigation is a general term that encompasses a broad range of property loss investigations. We provide in-house engineering expertise for failures or losses in the following areas:

  1. Product Liability
  2. Slip, Trip and Fall
  3. Residential and Commercial Electrical Systems
  4. Residential and Commercial Plumbing Systems
  5. Motor Vehicle Components
  6. Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Systems,
  7. Industrial Processes


Product liability

When a product that has failed to perform as expected contributes to a loss, the manufacturer can often be pursued for damages. Product liability cases can be technically complex, and typically involve a considerable body of codes and standards. Sintra Engineering's technical experience and comprehensive analytical approach has assisted our clients in their resolution of product liability claims.



Slip, Trip & Fall

When there is a need to establish the potential injury hazard represented by conditions in a particular physical environment, a slip, trip and fall investigation may be called for. In this type of investigation, our engineers examine the type of surface (e.g., coated concrete, linoleum, rubber stairway treads) in place in the area where the fall took place as well as the condition of that surface (e.g., cracked, uneven). They also assess the geometry of the area of interest (e.g., stairs, ramps, curbs) along with the location and condition of handrails. This information is reviewed in the context of the governing building code to determine whether the building or structure in question was in compliance with the applicable code.



Mechanical Investigations

Mechanical failure investigations cover a wide range of subjects, including residential or commercial piping failures, equipment component failures, boiler explosions, electrical system failures and engine failures. The techniques we employ in these investigations can be as varied as the subject matter. Some investigations require extensive system or equipment monitoring, others necessitate in-depth finite element analysis of component stresses on components, and others can be addressed with a simple physical examination.

 

 

Materials Engineering

Sintra Engineering uses advanced materials analysis techniques to determine the properties of materials and their fracture conditions, thus providing insight into the methods and modes of such failures as equipment malfunction, crane collapse, piping failures, and pressure vessel failures. Careful examination of a component can reveal crack origin and propagation patterns, which can help our engineers to determine how and why a component failed. Our computer modeling systems can test virtual components to understand their limitations, and to ensure that they are manufactured to the appropriate standards.