S&K Technologies (SKT) provides a wide range of materials analysis and testing services for government agencies and private companies. Our metallurgical laboratory provides a variety of analytical functions including macro- & microstructural analysis, material characterization, and mechanical testing.
Steve Ault uses state-of-the-art machinery
to determine structural flaws of materials
used in aircraft construction.
Microstructural Analysis
SKT metallurgists routinely employ microstructural analysis in support of material failure analysis. Our experienced metallurgists consistently section and examine aircraft structural components to confirm cracking and corrosion damage. Supplemented by a well equipped machine shop, microstructural analysis specimens are prepared by conventional metallographic techniques for subsequent examination using a research-grade optical microscope and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). Furthermore, SKT is able to determine material temper and alloy composition through our Rockwell and superficial hardness and conductivity test equipment and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) capability.
Failure Analysis (Fractography)
SKT metallurgists and materials engineers are well versed in performing failure analysis of aircraft structural components. Their broad knowledge of aerospace materials and fracture mechanics coupled with a well equipped metallurgical laboratory result in accurate damage mode and fracture morphology characterization the customer can have confidence in. This competency is further supplemented by a technical editing staff so that SKT is able to provide complete, professional-quality documentation of all findings and in accordance with customer requirements.
Mechanical Testing
SKT mechanical tests are often used to assess the mechanical properties of materials and to validate analytical crack models. The SKT servo-hydraulic mechanical test equipment has grips and fixturing to permit testing of metal alloys and polymer composites. Our capabilities include uniaxial tension and compression testing using two Model 810 MTS machines with TestStar IIsTM and FlexTest SETM controllers with up to 50 Kip capacity. Additionally, SKT is able to provide supplemental mechanical test control with our model 651 cryogenic environmental chamber capable of maintaining test specimen temperatures from -75 °C to -315 °C.
Materials Analysis and Testing Services:
- Microstructural Analysis
- Material Grain Structure Evaluation
- Material Rockwell Hardness Testing
- Material Superficial Hardness Testing
- Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS)
- Failure Analysis – Cracking, Corrosion, Mixed Mode
- Fracture Surface Morphology – Initiation Site(s) Identification, Damage Mode Characterization, Striation Spacing Measurement where applicable
- Low & High Cycle Fatigue Testing
- Fatigue Crack Growth Testing
- Material Acceptance Testing