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McDowell Owens Forensic Engineering

McDowell Owens Engineering, Inc. is a multi-disciplinary, nationwide forensic fire investigations engineering firm. Since 1986, we have provided comprehensive, unbiased forensic engineering and failure analysis services. Over the decades, we have worked with public and private clients in the legal, oil and gas, insurance, electrical, and petrochemical industries.

As established leaders in the field, McDowell Owens professional engineers, fire scientists, and consultants are experts in forensic failure analysis. Our clients rely on us to conduct thorough investigations to produce a multi-disciplinary analysis in the wake of any incident or disaster.

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Written by: Mcdowell Owens Integrated Forensic Engineering
Category: Uncategorised
Published: 19 May 2018
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Accident Reconstruction Forensic Engneering ServicesCustom Forensic Solutions

Accident Reconstruction Forensic Engineering Services

McDowell Owens forensic experts are accident reconstruction specialists who investigate vehicular accidents to illustrate what happened, how they occurred, and why.

Our engineers, scientists, and forensic experts have industry-based knowledge, project management skills, and analysis experience gained over thousands of cases. From identifying the cause and sequence of events to determining the factors that contributed to the accident, we provide expertise in accident reconstruction and analysis.

McDowell Owens and Accident Reconstruction Forensic Investigation

McDowell Owens Engineering, Inc. is a multi-disciplinary, nationwide forensic engineering firm. Since 1986, we have provided comprehensive, unbiased accident reconstruction, forensic engineering, and failure analysis services. As established leaders in forensics, McDowell Owens professional engineers, scientists, and consultants are experts in the field.

Accident Reconstruction Expertise

Our team of civil engineers and forensic investigators specializes in evaluating a wide array of crashes, accidents, and other matters that require accurate reconstructions to be properly understood. We can identify the cause and sequence of events that led to the accident and produce reports that are clear, understandable, and detailed.

McDowell Owens accident reconstruction experts have experience in:

    • Collision Reconstruction
    • Failure Analysis
    • Vehicle Dynamics
    • Visibility Studies
    • Collision Avoidance Analysis
  • Safety Standard Compliance
  • Data Recorder Retrieval and Evaluation
    • Mechanical Evaluation
    • Brake Examination
    • Rollover Evaluation
    • Cargo Securement
    • Passenger Restraint
    • Hail Damage Evaluation
  • Design Analysis and Evaluation
  • Fire Origin and Cause
    • Speed Evaluation
    • Line of Sight Evaluation
  • Material Properties Evaluation
  • Animation
  • "Who Was Driving?" Determination
  • Cargo Loading/Dispensing Evaluation
  • Lights "On/Off" Evaluation
  • Collision Reconstruction
  • Failure Snalysis
  • Vehicle Dynamics
  • Safety Standard Compliance
  • Visibility Studies
  • Collision Avoidance Analysis
  • Data Recorder Retrieval and Evaluation
  • Mechanical Evaluation
  • Brake Examination
  • Rollover Evaluation
  • Cargo Securement
  • Lights "On/Off" Evaluation
  • Fire Origin and Cause
  • Passenger Restraint
  • Hail Damage Evaluation
  • Design Analysis and Evaluation
  • Speed Evaluation
  • Line of Sight Evaluation
  • Material Properties Evaluation
  • Video Animation or Re-Enactment
  • "Who Was Driving?" Determination
  • Cargo Loading/Dispensing Evaluation

We utilize up-to-date technology to extract and evaluate pertinent information from the crash site, vehicles and components, drivers and occupants, photographs, manufacturers, roadway conditions, and documents. Through computer analysis and review of physical evidence (including electrical and mechanical systems), we can determine the vehicle’s speed and trajectory, as well as mechanical, metallurgical, and/or electrical failures.

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Some Examples of Accident Reconstructions

Motor Vehicle Crash Reconstruction

The technology of vehicle crash analysis is ever-changing. McDowell Owens experts are current and progressive, utilizing scientifically-based equipment needed to capture the collision scene and record evidence that may be used for analysis and simulations.

We have the specific equipment needed to document the vehicles involved in the collision and image (download) the on-board data recorders that are in most vehicles. This accident reconstruction data may then be fed into advanced programs such as HVE to analyze and reconstruct the collision. The features of HVE include tractor-trailer accidents and large vehicle accidents.

Tractor-Trailer and Large Vehicle Accident Reconstructions

Tractor-trailer crashes are complex cases within motor vehicle accidents that require deeper investigation and resources. These investigations include:

  • Evidence Collection and Processing
  • Site and Vehicle Inspections
  • Air Brake Testing
  • Electronic Control Module (ECM) Downloads/Imaging
  • Visibility & Conspicuity Assessment

Aside from tractor-trailers, we also have experience with:

  • Dump Trucks
  • Motor Coaches
  • School Buses
  • Industrial Vehicles
  • Mining Trucks
  • Construction Equipment

The larger size and greater mass of these vehicles give commercial vehicle collisions unique characteristics that make them more complex than collisions between passenger vehicles.

In addition, commercial vehicles have more complex mechanical and control systems and far more safety, maintenance, and operational regulations.

Pedestrian Strikes / Bicycle Accidents

McDowell Owens experts have experience in cases where pedestrians or bicyclists are struck by a vehicle. We draw upon our expertise in subject areas such as:

  • Visibility and Conspicuity of Humans
  • Roadway and Intersection Lighting
  • Accident Reconstruction
  • Intersection, Bike Path and Crosswalk Design
  • Weather Conditions/Meteorology
  • Crosswalk and Roadway Signals
  • Distracted Driver and/or Pedestrian Situations
  • Pedestrian and Bicyclist Human Factors
  • Lines of Sight
  • Roadway Signage
  • Driver’s Use of High Beam Headlight Setting
  • Premise Liability
  • Roadway and Intersection Lighting
  • Accident Reconstruction
  • Intersection, Bike Path and Crosswalk Design
  • Weather conditions/meteorology
  • Crosswalk and Roadway Signals
  • Distracted Driver and/or Pedestrian Situations
  • Pedestrian and Bicyclist Human Factors
  • Lines of Sight
  • Roadway Signage
  • Driver’s Use of High Beam Headlight Setting
  • Premise liability

Nighttime Accidents

Any nighttime incident is more complex than a similar incident in the daylight due to the major factors of compromised night vision and fatigue.

Motorcycles, ATVs, and UTVs

Incidents involving motorcycles, ATVs, and UTVs require another set of investigative skills. These accidents can vary in significant ways from automobiles, but McDowell Owens experts have the skill set to handle them.

Train & Vehicle Collisions

There are unique challenges that come with investigating train and vehicle crashes. With decades of experience in over 20,000 cases, our experts have overcome those challenges.

Our Accident Reconstruction Forensic Consultants

McDowell Owens consultants have extensive experience in a vast array of accident reconstruction cases, allowing us to provide scientific clarification and an engineering perspective that will guide your legal team through the technical details and evidence.

Forensic investigation is vital to pre-trial discovery and it’s critical to obtain data and support during the process. McDowell Owens teams are experts at conducting accident reconstruction forensic investigations. We combine investigative skills, scientific data, and courtroom experience for a thorough, comprehensive, and understandable report and testimony.

McDowell Owens forensic experts are leaders in the field, showcasing proven achievements in research, teaching, and publishing. Our expert engineers and scientists combine real-world experiences, advanced degrees, and certifications in several sub-disciplines. We stay ahead of changes, participate actively in industry groups, conduct research and testing to hone our skills, publish in highly respected professional journals, teach aspiring engineers, and present to peer groups.

With 3D computer modeling and many other techniques, our experts use:

Crash Data Retrieval – Our investigators download crash data (CDR or “Black Box” data) from electronic control modules (ECM) of passenger and commercial vehicles.

3D Laser Scanner & Accident Scene Reconstruction – Our experts create a 3D replica of the accident scene, including measurements, vehicle position, and damage. With this technology, our accident reconstruction experts can create a 3D animation of how a collision occurred.

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Litigation Support and Forensic Expert Witnesses

Since our founding in 1986, McDowell Owens experts have been involved in over 20,000 cases. We have extensive experience in every stage of the litigation process, from collecting and presenting evidence to expert witness testimony, forensic analysis, and post-litigation actions.

We provide dependable, unbiased litigation support that is comprehensive, yet accessible to non-experts. McDowell Owens teams combine investigative skills, scientific data, and courtroom experience for a thorough and understandable report.

5 Frequently Asked Questions About Accident Reconstruction Analysis

Accident reconstruction analyzes the factors that contributed to a motor vehicle collision to determine how it occurred. This information can help identify who was at fault and provide evidence in civil or criminal proceedings.

There are many steps involved in accident reconstruction, but typically they will include the following:

Gathering information about the accident scene and vehicles involved.

Establishing a sequence of events based on evidence and eyewitness accounts.

Analyzing damage to vehicles and road surfaces.

Determining vehicle speeds at the time of impact.

Calculating forces involved in the collision.

Electronically downloading the data from the vehicle’s computer system can provide critical data such as speed leading up to the impact, brake application, change in velocity (deceleration), and angle of steering input.

There is a wide range of equipment that can be used in accident reconstruction, including:

High-resolution cameras for taking photos of the scene and wreckage.

Laser scanners to measure distances and create 3D models of the scene.

Computer software for analyzing crash data and calculating forces involved.

Road surface measurement tools such as lasers and total stations.

Aerial imagery to assist with scene mapping, line of sight, and placement of various traffic control devices relative to the accident.

The accuracy of an accident reconstruction depends on the quality of the data available and the experience and expertise of the investigator. A reconstruction can be exact with accurate data, but it is always possible for some minor details to be incorrect. In general, however, reconstructions are considered highly reliable.

Accident reconstructions should only be performed by qualified professionals, such as investigators from law enforcement agencies or forensic engineering firms. These individuals have received specialized training in analyzing collisions and determining their causes, and most are ACTAR Certified by the Accreditation Commission for Traffic Accident Reconstruction.

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Written by: Mcdowell Owens Integrated Forensic Engineering
Category: Uncategorised
Published: 19 May 2018
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Advanced Electrical Systems - Forensic Engineering ServicesCustom Forensic Solutions

Advanced Electrical Systems - Forensic Engineering Services

Electrical systems include power distribution, lighting, life safety, utility transmission, distribution systems, and control systems for buildings. An incident involving an electrical system is serious, as it may involve electrical shock injuries, construction accidents and claims, product malfunctions, electrical fires, and more.

When an electrical system failure causes a serious incident or accident, you need skilled experts to accurately assess the damage, determine the possible cause, and provide guidance so recovery occurs quickly and cost-effectively.

McDowell Owens is that firm. We investigate electrical system failure incidents and explain what happened, how it occurred, and how to avoid the same issues in the future.

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McDowell Owens Advanced Electrical Systems Investigation

McDowell Owens Engineering, Inc. is a multi-disciplinary, nationwide forensic engineering firm. Since 1986, we have provided comprehensive, unbiased electrical system failure forensic engineering and analysis services. As established leaders in forensics, McDowell Owens professional engineers, scientists, and consultants are experts in electrical systems failure investigations. With decades of experience spanning more than 20,000 cases, we have investigated incidents involving:

  • Lightning Damage
  • Circuit Breakers
  • Electrical Distribution Systems
  • Control Systems
  • The National Electrical Code
  • Switchgear
  • Electrical Systems Design
  • Wiring
  • Construction Methods
  • Utility Company Operation
  • Lightning Damage
  • Circuit Breakers
  • Electrical Distribution Systems
  • Control Systems
  • The National Electrical Code
  • Switchgear
  • Electrical Systems Design
  • Wiring
  • Construction Methods
  • Utility Company Operation

We have performed investigations in:

  • Residential
  • Commercial
  • Industrial and Institutional Equipment
  • Building Systems
  • Electronics Industry
  • High Tech

Advanced electronic systems analysis is the process of studying and understanding the inner workings of electronic systems. This includes examining the system's functions, diagnosing problems and issues, and making necessary repairs or modifications. Advanced electronic systems analysis can help resolve problems by identifying the root cause of the issue and providing solutions to fix it.

Our Advanced Electrical Forensic Consultants

McDowell Owens consultants have extensive experience in a variety of advanced electrical systems forensic matters, allowing us to provide scientific clarification and an engineering perspective that will guide your legal team through the technical details and evidence.

Forensic investigation is vital to pre-trial discovery and it’s critical to obtain data and support during the process. McDowell Owens teams are experts at conducting advanced electrical forensic investigations. We combine investigative skills, scientific data, and courtroom experience for a thorough, comprehensive, and understandable report and testimony.

Our expert engineers and scientists combine real-world experiences, advanced degrees, and certifications in several sub-disciplines. We stay ahead of changes, contribute to industry groups, conduct research and testing to hone our skills, teach aspiring engineers, and present to peer groups.

5 Frequently Asked Questions About Advanced Electronic Systems Analysis

Advanced electronic systems analysis is the process of studying and understanding the inner workings of electronic systems. This includes examining the system's functions, diagnosing any problems or issues, and making necessary repairs or modifications.

There are many benefits to advanced electronic systems analysis, including:

- Improved system performance

- Increased efficiency

- Reduced downtime

- Improved reliability

- Increased security

Some of the most common issues that arise with electronic systems include:

Component failure - Individual electronic components can fail due to factors like manufacturing defects, damage from electrical surges, or normal wear and tear over time. Examples include failed capacitors, blown fuses, and faulty integrated circuits.

Connection problems - Loose, damaged, or corroded connections between components can cause intermittent or complete failures. Connector issues like broken pins or deterioration at solder joints often lead to connection issues.

Power problems - Inadequate power due to a weak battery, faulty power supply, or poor cable connections can prevent proper operation. Power surges and spikes can also damage electronics.

Overheating - Dust buildup, failed fans, undersized heat sinks, and software bugs that cause components to overwork can all raise temperatures past safe levels, resulting in glitches or permanent damage.

EMI/RFI interference - Electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI) from external sources can introduce noise or spikes that disrupt electronic signaling and data transmission.

Software flaws - Bugs, crashes, memory leaks, and other software issues can trigger a range of problems in electronics that rely on programmed instructions to operate correctly.

User error - Incorrect use or settings, unintentional damage, and failure to perform routine maintenance are common user-induced issues with electronics.

Careful inspection, testing, and analysis by a qualified forensic engineer can diagnose the specific faults responsible for electronic system problems.

Advanced electronic systems analysis can help resolve these problems by identifying the root cause of the issue and providing solutions to fix it. In some cases, replacing or upgrading components or software may be necessary to restore the system to full functionality.

Some of the most important factors to consider when performing an advanced electronic systems analysis include:

- The type of system being analyzed

- The operating system and software installed on the system

- Any known errors or issues with the system

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Written by: Mcdowell Owens Integrated Forensic Engineering
Category: Uncategorised
Published: 19 May 2018
Hits: 9387
Electrical Failure Forensic Engineering ServicesCustom Forensic Solutions

Electrical Failure Forensic Engineering Services

When an electrical failure causes a serious incident or accident, you need skilled experts to accurately assess the damage, determine the possible cause, and provide guidance so recovery is quick and cost-effective.

McDowell Owens is that firm. We investigate electrical failure incidents and accidents and explain what happened, how it occurred, and how to avoid the same issues in the future.

McDowell Owens Electrical Failure Forensic Investigation

McDowell Owens Engineering, Inc. is a multi-disciplinary, nationwide forensic engineering firm. Since 1986, we have provided comprehensive, unbiased electrical failure forensic engineering and analysis services.

As established leaders in forensics, McDowell Owens professional engineers, scientists, and consultants are experts in electrical failure investigations.

With decades of experience spanning more than 20,000 cases, we have investigated incidents involving:

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    • Equipment Failure
    • Electrical Fires
    • Electrical Injuries
    • Electronics
    • Hardware or Software
    • Lightning and Power Surge
    • Power Generation
    • Product Liability
    • Transformers
    • Water Contamination
  • Circuit Breakers/Switchgear
  • Fire, Heat, Smoke, and Soot Contamination
    • Equipment Failure
    • Electrical Fires
  • Circuit Breakers/Switchgear
    • Electrical Injuries
    • Electronics
  • Fire, Heat, Smoke and Soot Contamination
    • Hardware or Software
    • Lightning and Power Surge
    • Power Generation
    • Product Liability
    • Transformers
    • Water Contamination

Electrical Failure Expertise

Our team of electrical engineers specialize in evaluating a variety of failures. We understand that every incident is unique, and we work to avoid the expectation bias trap.

We have decades of experience, industry-based knowledge, project management skills, and analysis experience. We can identify the cause and sequence of damage to the attributable loss estimate and produce reports that are detailed, clear, and understandable.

With our expertise across various disciplines, we are equipped to provide thorough, quick answers on failures due to:

  • Power Generation Equipment
  • Vehicles
  • Overheating Equipment
  • Power Surges
  • Unkempt Electrical Devices and Equipment
  • Insulation Degradation
  • Old or Insufficient Wiring
  • Loose Connectors
  • Electrical Control Systems
  • Lack of Electric Current Monitoring Devices
  • Transformers
  • Circuit Breakers/Switchgear
  • Industrial, Commercial, and Manufacturing Equipment
    • Power Generation Equipment
    • Vehicles
    • Overheating Equipment
    • Power Surges
    • Unkempt Electrical Devices and Equipment
    • Insulation Degradation
    • Old or Insufficient Wiring
    • Loose Connectors
    • Electrical Control Systems
    • Lack of Electric Current Monitoring Devices
    • Transformers
    • Circuit Breakers/Switchgear
    • Industrial, Commercial, and Manufacturing Equipment

Electrical Engineering Forensic Investigation

The skills needed to uncover and evaluate evidence related to electrical failures and accidents are highly specialized. Our engineers and experts are skilled at scene and evidence preservation.

We determine the cause or causes of the failed components using:

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    • Multimeter Testing
    • Megohmmeters
    • X-Rays/Radiographs
    • Circuit tracing
    • Multi-Meter Testing
    • Megohmmeters
    • X-Rays/Radiographs
    • Circuit tracing

Our Electrical Failure Forensic Consultants

McDowell Owens consultants have extensive experience in a variety of electrical failure forensic matters, allowing us to provide scientific clarification and an engineering perspective that will guide your legal team through the technical details and evidence.

Forensic investigation is vital to pre-trial discovery and it’s critical to obtain data and support during the process. McDowell Owens teams are experts at conducting electrical failure forensic investigations. We combine investigative skills, scientific data, and courtroom experience for a thorough, comprehensive, and understandable report and testimony.

McDowell Owens electrical failure forensic experts are experienced professionals in the field, combining real-world expertise with advanced degrees and certifications in various sub-disciplines. Our team stays up-to-date with industry changes and continuously enhances their skills through research and testing.

McDowell Owens forensic consulting professionals offer valuable insight and dedicated expertise on your electrical failure forensic case through thorough analysis and research.

5 Frequently Asked Questions About Electrical Engineering Failure Analysis

Electrical engineering failure analysis investigates and diagnoses the cause of failures in electrical and electronic systems or components.

The benefits of electrical engineering failure analysis include:

- Improved system reliability

- Reduced downtime and repair costs

- Improved product quality

- Improved safety

The typical steps involved in electrical engineering failure analysis include:

- Identification of the failed component or system

- Determination of the cause of the failure

- Development of a corrective action plan

The common causes of electrical failures include:

- Component defects

- Manufacturing defects

- Design defects

- Installation errors

- Incorrect or poor maintenance

- Mechanical damage

- Improper application such as under-rated or overloaded components

There are several ways to prevent electrical failures, including:

- Using high-quality components

- Following proper design and manufacturing procedures

- Following proper installation and maintenance procedures

- Using properly-rated components for the application

- Avoiding overloading situations and protecting from mechanical damage

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Written by: Mcdowell Owens Integrated Forensic Engineering
Category: Uncategorised
Published: 19 May 2018
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Mechanical Failure Forensic Engineering ServicesCustom Forensic Solutions

Mechanical Failure Forensic Engineering Services

McDowell Owens investigates mechanical failure incidents and explains what happened, how it occurred, and how to avoid the same issues in the future. We thoroughly evaluate the design, materials, plans, uses, and more to determine how the failure occurred, what factors contributed to the incident, and who was at fault.

We provide answers while explaining, in understandable terms, the complex relationships inherent in mechanical engineering. Our engineers provide answers. Piecing together the facts is what we do.

McDowell Owens and Mechanical Failure Forensic Investigation

McDowell Owens Engineering, Inc. is a multi-disciplinary, nationwide forensic engineering firm. Since 1986, we have provided comprehensive, unbiased mechanical failure forensic engineering and analysis services. Established leaders in forensics, McDowell Owens professional engineers, scientists, and consultants are experts in mechanical failure and losses.

Components that experience mechanical failures typically do so due to issues such as:

    • Design Errors
    • Manufacturing Issues
    • Misuse or Abuse
    • Improper Maintenance
    • Operational Stress
    • Inadequate Quality Assurance
  • Environmental Factors (e.g., Vibration, Corrosion, etc.)
  • Design Errors
  • Manufacturing Issues
  • Misuse or Abuse
  • Improper Maintenance
  • Operational Stress
  • Inadequate Quality Assurance
  • Environmental Factors (e.g., Vibration, Corrosion, etc.)

Mechanical Failure Expertise

Our team of mechanical engineers and forensic investigators specialize in evaluating mechanical failures in systems such as:

  • HVAC
  • Boilers
  • Manufacturing Equipment
  • Industrial Machinery
  • Vehicle Components
  • Heavy Equipment
  • Elevators and Escalators
  • Turbines and Engines
  • Refineries and Petrochemical Processing Equipment
  • HVAC
  • Boilers
  • Manufacturing Equipment
  • Industrial Machinery
  • Vehicle Components
  • Heavy Equipment
  • Elevators and Escalators
  • Turbines and Engines
  • Refineries and Petrochemical Processing Equipment

Common mechanical failure types we investigate include:

  • Structural Failures
  • Operational Stress
  • Component Misalignment
  • Wear and Tear
  • Overload and Impact Damage
  • Fatigue and Fracture due to repetitive loading
  • Structural Failures
  • Operational Stress
  • Component Misalignment
  • Wear and Tear
  • Overload and Impact Damage
  • Fatigue and Fracture due to repetitive loading

We have decades of experience, industry-based knowledge, project management skills, and analysis experience. We can identify the cause and sequence of damage to the attributable loss estimate and produce reports that are detailed, clear, and understandable.

McDowell Owens mechanical failure experts are experienced in analyzing and diagnosing issues in mechanical systems. Our expertise covers:

  • Identifying causes of mechanical breakdowns
  • Assessing operational inefficiencies
  • Evaluating the impact of environmental conditions on mechanical systems
  • Providing actionable recommendations to prevent future failures
  • Identifying causes of mechanical breakdowns
  • Assessing operational inefficiencies
  • Evaluating the impact of environmental conditions on mechanical systems
  • Providing actionable recommendations to prevent future failures

Issues That Require An Interdisciplinary Approach

When approaching a mechanical failure incident, it is essential to understand that interdisciplinary teams are crucial in conducting analyses, as the root cause is seldom due to only one factor.

Operational Causes for Mechanical Failure

Our engineers investigate the root causes of mechanical failures, focusing on:

  • Structural Integrity Issues
  • Vibrational Stress
  • Mechanical Wear and Tear
  • Overloading Conditions
  • Operational and Maintenance Failures
  • Environmental Factors Affecting Mechanical Performance
  • Structural Integrity Issues
  • Vibrational Stress
  • Mechanical Wear and Tear
  • Overloading Conditions
  • Operational and Maintenance Failures
  • Environmental Factors Affecting Mechanical Performance

Our Mechanical Failure Forensic Consultants

McDowell Owens consultants have extensive experience in a variety of mechanical failure forensic matters, allowing us to provide scientific clarification and an engineering perspective that will guide your legal team through the technical details and evidence.

McDowell Owens forensic experts are leaders in the field, showcasing achievements in research, teaching, and publishing. Our expert engineers and scientists combine real world experiences, advanced degrees, and certifications in several sub-disciplines to become leaders in the industry and experts in the field. We stay ahead of changes, contribute actively to industry groups, conduct research and testing to hone our skills, teach aspiring engineers, and present to peer groups.

McDowell Owens mechanical failure forensic experts are experienced professionals in the field, combining real-world expertise with advanced degrees and certifications in various sub-disciplines. Our team stays up-to-date with industry changes and continuously enhances their skills through research and testing.

McDowell Owens forensic consulting professionals offer valuable insight and dedicated expertise on your mechanical failure forensic case through thorough analysis and research.

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Litigation Support and Forensic Expert Witnesses

Since our founding in 1986, McDowell Owens experts have been involved in over 20,000 cases. We have extensive experience in every stage of the litigation process, from collecting and presenting evidence to expert witness testimony, forensic analysis, and post-litigation actions.

We provide dependable, unbiased litigation support that is comprehensive, yet accessible to non-experts. McDowell Owens teams combine investigative skills, scientific data, and courtroom experience for a thorough and understandable report.

When you work with us:

  • We will match you with an engineer with the expertise to inform your case.
  • We rapidly respond to your litigation needs, including 24/7 support.
  • You are assured of working with a team of licensed experts with extensive credentials.

5 Frequently Asked Questions About Mechanical Failure Analysis

A mechanical failure refers to when a mechanical component or system stops performing its intended function due to damage, wear, defective design, improper installation, or lack of maintenance. Mechanical failures typically involve the breakdown of moving parts, structures, or machines.

The most common causes of mechanical failures include wear and tear, material fatigue, corrosion, foreign object damage, and a lack of proper maintenance.

The best way to prevent mechanical failures is to conduct regular inspections and maintenance checks, use high-quality materials and components, and adhere to manufacturers’ recommendations and safety guidelines.

There are several ways to tell if your equipment is about to fail, including checking for unusual noise or vibration, looking for signs of wear and tear, and monitoring the temperature and pressure readings.

If equipment fails, the first priority should be to safely power down and isolate the equipment to prevent further damage or risky situations. Follow proper safety procedures, document conditions, and preserve evidence before qualified personnel perform inspections. A forensic investigation utilizing disassembly, testing, analysis, and modeling should then aim to determine the root cause(s) of failure. Corrective actions can be taken with proper evidence and conclusions.

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Custom Forensic Solutions

Our mission is to investigate, solve, and explain the most challenging engineering and scientific problems.

McDowell Owens has extensive resources that allow us to provide a custom forensic solution for every assignment. We evaluate the available evidence and apply scientific methods, specialized knowledge, and the latest analytical technologies to reach scientifically sound solutions for our clients.

When performing forensic analysis, our team thoroughly investigates the issues, from taking data at the scene to analyzing drawings, material specifications, supporting documentation, and conducting tests.

We produce reports that are clear, concise, accurate, and comprehensive.

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Our Areas of Expertise

We provide technical answers and engineering solutions for insurance companies, law firms, and businesses – anyone looking for an unbiased, scientifically sound answer to questions involving:

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Gas System Failure Analysis

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Fire Investigation

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Accident Reconstruction

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Electrical Failure Analysis

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Mechanical Failure Analysis

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Civil & Structural Failure Analysis

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Root Cause Failure Analysis

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Marine Failure Analysis

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Advanced Electrical Systems

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Workplace Injury Investigations

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For our clients, we have the experience and expertise to determine the cause and scope.

Expert Witness Services

McDowell Owens team of highly credentialed experts has a proven track record of success in helping audiences understand the value and strength of our findings.

We present the facts based on solid science. The science is vital, of course, but it doesn’t mean much without the ability to make it understood and put in its proper context to tell the true story of what happened.

Communication is the key to favorable case outcomes in both pre-trial settlements and verdicts. The experts at McDowell Owens have a firm grasp of Frye and Daubert standards and possess the ability to take complex concepts and turn them into easily understood principles for all to understand. We ensure that the judges and juries fully understand the technical and scientific information from your case, leaving them with a clear picture and convincing evidence.

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When you work with McDowell Owens experts in court, you will:

  • Partner with professionals that offer academic credentials and real-world courtroom experience to lend expertise and credibility to your case.
  • Have a team that will always meet stringent court and internal deadlines. Our highly-focused approach delivers timely work.
  • You are assured of working with a team of licensed forensic engineers with extensive credentials.

McDowell Owens Laboratory – Services and Capabilities

Our “clean” laboratory services are utilized by our staff on a regular basis to provide our clients with the most accurate and complete analysis possible. Our laboratory capabilities are available to anyone who needs lab space and/or the proper documentation, including the following:

  • Fire Debris X-Ray and Photography
  • Electrical Testing, Recording, and Photography
  • Mechanical Failure Analysis (X-ray and Digital Microscopy)
  • Appliance Fire, Water Loss and Other Failure Analysis/Testing/Documentation
  • Dryers and Other Appliances
  • Water Losses in Washing Machines, Dishwashers, Sink, Toilet Valves, Etc. (Testing Capabilities and X-ray where needed)
  • Various Product Testing
  • Specialized Laboratory Testing (Designed as needed and with your protocol)

Our laboratory has full video recording capability with real-time observation and remote participation for those who cannot be present. All inspections, examinations, and testing can be recorded, as can all digital microscopes.

“Dirty” laboratory services are available to anyone who needs teardown space for engines, transmissions, etc. They can then be examined, documented, photographed, and X-rayed in the “clean” lab as needed.

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Our Clients

McDowell Owens does not publish the names of clients unless required to do so. They include some of the largest and most sophisticated Forensic Engineering service users in the Western Hemisphere. We believe, however, that we are hired to solve a problem, not to use their names to attract business.

24/7 To Meet Your Needs

Our experts are here 24/7 to help with the analysis of fires, explosions, and vehicular accidents, as well as structural, mechanical, and electrical failures using the latest technology and testing methodologies.

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832-831-2910
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McDowell Owens team of professional engineers, fire scientists, and consultants specialize in failure analysis.

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  • Footer Map 740 East 13th Street Houston, Texas 77008

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