Cracks 101: A Practical Introduction to Cracks and Crack-Like Flaws

Led by Dr. Ted Anderson, a recognized expert in fracture mechanics, this training draws on decades of research, industry leadership, and hands-on experience. A Practical Introduction to Cracks and Crack-Like Flaws for Inspectors and Engineers is an on-demand online course that provides a practical introduction to managing equipment susceptible to cracks and crack-like flaws, whether they occur during fabrication or develop over time from service conditions. In the course, you will explore the most common cracking mechanisms, including fatigue, stress corrosion cracking, and hydrogen embrittlement, while learning how to consider crack propagation, fracture toughness, what they mean, and the impact on reliability.

The course is designed for inspectors and maintenance or reliability engineers. It introduces fracture mechanics, fitness-for-service (FFS), and finite element modeling, and shows when these approaches add real value. Understanding them will make you more effective in your role and give you the insight to work more confidently with specialists and make informed decisions.

Drawing on real-world examples, you’ll learn when these approaches are valid, when further due diligence is needed, and how proactive FFS can define limiting flaw sizes and pinpoint the most likely areas for cracking, which is critical knowledge for inspectors and those shaping inspection strategies. This course is also an ideal starting point for engineers preparing to perform these types of evaluations.

Normally taught over the span of one day in a traditional classroom setting, this self-paced training has been thoughtfully condensed into 3.28 video hours thanks to its online format, making it easier to fit into your schedule without sacrificing quality. Enroll today to strengthen your understanding of cracks and crack-like flaws and start applying these insights in your work.

This course includes:

• This course includes on-demand video lessons, comprehension checks, and a final exam

• CPD and PDH eligible, with a certificate provided upon completion

• Access for 12 months upon purchasing the course

• Slides are not available for this course

What You’ll Learn

By completing this course, participants will gain a broad understanding of:

• The causes, risks, and impacts of cracks on structural integrity.

• Fundamental concepts like stress, strain, and fracture mechanics without advanced math.

• Common cracking mechanisms, including fatigue, stress corrosion cracking, and hydrogen embrittlement.

• Crack propagation, and the differences between ductile and brittle fractures.

• Tools for assessing structural vulnerabilities, such as Failure Assessment Diagrams (FAD).

• Practical insights to prevent failures and improve system safety and reliability.