Numerous factors affect the ultimate reliability and longevity of a bolted connection. Factors from initial material selection to ultimate control of residual fastener preload, and everything in between, all have vital roles to play. When a failure occurs, it's crucial that the contributors are identified so that future losses can be avoided.

With this in mind, hevii provides comprehensive unbiased and independent on-site failure investigations and remedial recommendations. Site inspections, interviews, specification reviews, work/operation history studies, equipment tests, contractor procedural audits and training are all considered. When necessary, this may be supported by detailed metallurgical analyses comprised of:

• Laboratory tests and / or component tests
• Macro to micro visual assessment of the damaged material and still-intact components
• Estimation or exact calculation of material strength
• Fracture-mechanical estimates and calculations
• Considerations on the suitability of the materials used
• Clarifications on the manufacture, assembly and operation
• Examination of the load on the components in exceptional operating situations and in standstill phases
• Damage hypotheses
• Evaluation and reporting of the overall results