AMOG was engaged by Baker McKenzie, on behalf of a confidential client, to conduct a failure investigation and provide expert opinion. The case related to the structural failure of a large bucket wheel excavator, and included extensive FEM structural analyses and forensic failure investigations.

Fatigue assessment was based on codified approaches and fracture mechanics methods. Other assessments included the consideration of operational aspects and their impact on the mode of failure.

The scope of the specific engineering investigations included:

  • Assessment of design adequacy
  • Review of intended mode of operation
  • Review of protection systems
  • Fracture mechanics assessments
  • Strength, load, fatigue and stress assessments