Set in the Bradshaw mountains of central Arizona, Failure Analysis Service Technology, Inc. is a dedicated business in the aviation industry. It is located within the Ernest A. Love Field Airport, a well-known location for local aviation enthusiasts, as well as Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
FAST specializes in conducting Aviation Metallurgical Mishap Investigations. Determining the cause of damage to aircraft or their components is crucial in preventing future foreign object damage (FOD) from happening. FAST utilizes three main components for investigating each case. First, we have implemented our own process of taking a replica sample surface. This procedure picks up any particulate left behind by an impacting object. Secondly, using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), we identify the foreign debris that impacted the surface. Lastly, FAST personnel use photos taken of the damage and the first-hand aviation knowledge to accurately indicate the size and type of material that is most likely the culprit. We are committed to completing each case with conclusive results for our clients.
FAST recognizes the major benefits to be derived from learning the actual causes of damage to aircraft and aircraft components. Our commitment to elimination of foreign object damage (FOD) to turbine engines led to our development of a nondestructive technique for evaluation of impact damage. The FAST FOD Replicating Procedure™ is widely used by all branches of the United States military, as well as airframe makers and commercial airlines throughout the world.
The unique combined first-hand experience of FAST personnel, including aviation flight operations, materials science background, aviation material failure experience, and extensive hands-on failure analysis expertise specific to aviation permits the FAST team to determine the causes of failure and/or damage.
