TRACK: Safety/Reliability
From an early age, many of us are encouraged to “go with the flow” and avoid causing waves. Yet, in the world of manufacturing and materials engineering, silence can jeopardize safety and reliability. This presentation explores the crucial responsibility engineers have to raise concerns when something doesn’t add up. Through a compelling case study involving the unexpected failure of multiple Alloy 20 flanges during hydrostatic pressure testing, we will examine how an initial third-party report misdiagnosed the cause of failure. Only after engineers questioned the findings and pursued further investigation was the true root cause uncovered—enabling effective mitigation measures and safeguarding equipment operation. Attendees will gain practical insights into the importance of advocacy, critical thinking, and persistence in the face of uncertainty. Join us to learn why speaking up is not just encouraged—it is essential for the safety and reliability of our industry.