When 300,000 hens perished in a sudden structural collapse at a large-scale egg production facility, the initial explanation was almost too strange to believe: a rogue chicken had allegedly triggered a grain spill, setting off a chain reaction that led to catastrophic failure. But as any seasoned...
Solar farms are subject to the hazards of extreme weather, including hailstorms that can cause extensive, costly damage. Among the many severe incidents, hailstorms were responsible for over $300 million in damage to solar fields in Texas in the summer of 2022. When large-scale losses like these...
Solar power is on the rise, driven by climate change concerns and the transition to renewable energy. The Solar Energy Industries Association estimates there are now over 219 gigawatts of solar capacity installed across the US, with deployments increasing at an average annual growth rate of 26%...
We’re excited to share that Andy Siegfried, P.E., MBA, has joined Engineering Design & Testing Corp. (EDT) as our new President and Chief Executive Officer. Andy brings with him more than 28 years of experience leading engineering and construction organizations, along with a strong reputation for...
With spring comes warmer weather, but it also brings an increased risk of severe storms, many of which can produce hail. Assessing hail damage is an important step in evaluating insurance claims, repair decisions, and property conditions. Given the high costs associated with roof replacements and...
At Engineering Design & Testing Corp. (EDT), we’re continually advancing our capabilities to deliver precise, reliable answers to complex engineering investigations. One of the latest additions to our toolkit is our new digital X-ray equipment, which is already making a significant impact on the way...
When critical systems like turbines, compressors, or boilers fail, the fallout can be catastrophic—escalating costs, operational disruptions, and even legal implications. At EDT, we specialize in uncovering the root causes of these failures, helping insurance professionals, attorneys, and facility...
When a fire devastates a property, it leaves behind more than just charred remains—it leaves a trail of questions. What caused it? How did it spread? Could it have been prevented? For insurers, attorneys, and property owners, uncovering these answers is essential to determining liability and...
When it comes to engineering problems, sometimes the smallest vibrations can lead to the biggest headaches. Whether it’s cooling towers rattling a building’s framework or ventilation fans wearing out long before their time, the ripple effects of vibration can cause serious operational issues...
As winter approaches, many of us brace for the challenges that freezing temperatures can bring to our homes and businesses. One common issue is pipe ruptures due to freezing. A frequent misconception I've encountered is that the location of a pipe rupture is always where the pipe froze. In reality...
In industries that depend on the flawless operation of large, complex machinery, unexpected failures can lead to significant operational disruptions, financial losses, and safety hazards. Diagnosing the root causes of these failures is often challenging, as traditional inspection methods may not...
As the renewable energy sector continues to grow, wind turbines remain a central pillar of the industry. However, behind their towering blades and energy production is a complex mechanical system that can be prone to failure. As a forensic engineer, I’ve spent much of my career studying the failures...
Forensic Engineering Perspectives on Urban Flooding and Public Systems When a home or business floods during a rain event, the cause may be found inside or outside of the property line. While privately owned drainage elements such as French drains and sewer laterals are common culprits, this blog...
Forklifts are essential pieces of equipment used in warehousing, manufacturing, and construction environments. The operation of a forklift requires an operator with the proper training in lifting and positioning loads and maneuvering in areas where other employees are present. When operated in an...
In the oil and gas industry, the risks are consistently high. The systems that are designed and deployed must operate under some of the most extreme conditions on Earth—thousands of feet underwater, under immense pressure, and/or in highly corrosive environments. The margin for error is thin, and...
