Cases Applied to Root Cause Analysis: A Review
Abstract
This paper provides a literary review on implementing root cause analysis (RCA) to address several mechanical problems in various production industries. First, we briefly contextualize the defnition of RCA, list the proper implementation steps for applying RCA to an engineering
problem, and discuss its benefts concerning mitigating expenses in construction works, at a
production plant, or in any another situation that requires an analysis of this nature. The studies
referenced herein describe different cases wherein the RCA methodology has been deployed to
determine the reason why critical equipment parts fail. Based on this review, the following most
common crucial steps are determined: explaining the nature of the failing element; developing a
physicochemical characterization of the element’s material through spectroscopy, micrography,
and fractography; and in some cases, applying design concepts through fnite element analysis. Additionally, the study element is compared against recent or previous research on possible
failure mechanisms to determine its probable root cause. Finally, we offer recommendations for
mitigating some failure risks, resulting in operational and economic improvement.
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