Understanding and Interpreting Mixed-Mode Fractures

What is mixed-mode fracture? How can it occur? What does it mean? Failure analysts trained to identify singular fracture mechanisms may be surprised when multiple mechanisms are observed on the same separation surface. Fear not! Do not get mixed up by mixed-mode fractures. Mixed-mode fractures are common, and recognizing and understanding the combination of fracture mechanisms may be critical when performing a complete root cause analysis.

This presentation will provide an overview of mixed-mode fractures and will highlight the fundamentals for interpreting the features observed. Then, this knowledge will be applied to case studies involving mixed-mode fractures.