On April 2nd, Dave Exline, Senior V.P. and Antonio Scatena, Laboratory Manager at Gateway Analytical hosted a webinar designed for manufacturing managers, quality control managers and analytical lab personnel. During this webinar, our presenters discussed the various areas of an industrial forensic investigation, including contamination testing to control contamination of raw materials, processes and products; different types of quality control systems; and took the audience into the lab to discuss how to prepare samples for testing using various analytical techniques including microscopy, SEM/EDS, FTIR and Raman. They also discussed how to interpret the data collected and what type of conclusions can be made from your findings. Finally, our presenters provided example case scenarios to demonstrate the methodology of industrial forensic analysis.
For more details on the webinar, you can use the links below.
- View the webinar
- Download the presentation slides
We received a number of questions from attendees during the Q&A segment, and you can find those questions and answers below. If you have any questions about this or any other topic, please contact us.
- What is the most common type of foreign particulate you encounter?
The most common type of foreign particulate we encounter is typically glass, metals, gasket and silicones. Fibers are also a common source of foreign particulate. - What Type of quality control do you need to do this type of testing?
ISO 17025 is an accreditation that is common for reputable testing laboratories. - What industries would this type of testing be beneficial? Automotive, laminate, etc.?
This type of testing is applicable to all industries. All industries deal with product failures, product returns and a variety on non-conformance issues which require this type of testing. - Is there a need for high-throughput Raman spectroscopy in industrial forensics?
There are several applications that would benefit from the use of high-throughput Raman spectroscopy instruments. Determining small quality issues in pigments and powders, as well a fiber contamination are ones we deal with. - Is there an adhesive to hold particles to Low E glass for FTIR-ATR?
I have inquired with several industry experts, and have been unable to provide a valuable product. Some sample preparations can add advantages as opposed to a adhesive. - What is the difference between Industrial Forensics and the duties of a quality engineer?
The difference is in training related to the focus of source determination and the specialized training in microscopic examinations such as hair/fiber and materials that are not commonly encountered in typical engineering. Excellent question.