(V) Photography of Fracture Surfaces

The purpose of this presentation is to detail the techniques required to obtain good photographic documentation of both the fracture surfaces and the adjacent manufactured surfaces of fractured or cracked components. The surface roughness, texture, color, and reflectivity, as well as wear patterns, impact marks, various fractographic features (beach marks, ratchet marks, radial marks, overload zones, etc.), and corrosion damage of the adjacent and/or relevant part surfaces require complete documentation in order to understand the causes and significance of the fracture. The techniques used to best reveal and document these features will be explored through the use of numerous examples and photographs, resulting in convincing evidence to the viewer that the fracture has been correctly examined, fully documented, and even artfully represented.