Engineering and Consulting

Forensic Consulting: Root Cause Analysis (RCA)

We identify and prevent plant equipment failures and errors

How we approach an RCA

We are a recognized specialist in Root Cause Analysis (RCA), backed by expertise in forensic engineering methodologies—process analysis, data evaluation, inspection, defect assessment, and computational simulation—covering all stages of a comprehensive RCA process:

On-site inspection

On-site visits and in-situ defect inspection.

Data analysis

Analysis of historical data and Distributed Control System (DCS) signals.

Materials and laboratory

Material evaluation and laboratory testing.

Failure hypothesis

Failure hypothesis development and validation through FEA/CFD/CHT analysis.

Corrective actions

Definition and verification of corrective actions.

Failure Cause Analysis – RCA

Failures such as accidents, loss of mechanical integrity, or premature degradation of service life often result from a combination of factors, including:

Design errors
Fabrication or assembly defects
Improper heat treatments
Operational misuse or abuse
Inadequate maintenance
Unexpected operating conditions
Inappropriate material selection

Root Cause Analysis (RCA) identifies the true origin of a failure by evaluating the behavior and influence of each potential factor through physical characterization and/or numerical modeling.

CADE provides comprehensive, multidisciplinary services for failure investigation, asset integrity evaluation, and forensic engineering related to failures in critical plant equipment, piping, and components.

Once a failure hypothesis is validated via RCA, corrective measures can be proposed, designed, and verified through CADE’s advanced consulting services, which may include FFS evaluations, laboratory testing, and/or in-plant trials.

Problem awareness

Initial data study

Failure hypothesis approach

Physical characterization

Demonstration of hypothesis validity or rejection

Consistency with evidence and observations

Corrective measures and solutions

Conclusions

Independent Engineering

Thanks to our extensive experience in asset evaluation, design validation, failure root cause determination, and equipment and process optimization, CADE provides external engineering consulting services as an independent expert in forensic investigations and due diligence processes within the industrial sector. We have a particularly strong presence in the photovoltaic (PV) and concentrated solar power (CSP) sectors, where we have participated in the evaluation of assets and the analysis of catastrophic events at more than 20 plants worldwide.

Due diligence

In decisions involving mergers & acquisitions, investments, or project development, a due diligence process provides a structured, in-depth analysis to assess return potential, risks, and overall feasibility—forming the basis for well-informed decisions.

Due diligence ensures objectivity and transparency by reducing uncertainties around the condition of the assets involved in a transaction.

CADE provides technical asset evaluations through detailed analysis that determines:

Current condition and performance of the assets
Remaining useful life, based on service history and usage
Compliance with relevant codes, standards, and regulations

This insight helps investors and stakeholders make risk-informed decisions, avoiding costly errors during negotiations.

Third Party & Expert Assessment

In complex industrial disputes, an impartial technical expert is often the only reliable way to avoid long, costly litigation.

With proven experience in the design, fabrication, construction, and analysis of special equipment and structures, CADE acts as an independent technical advisor in disputes involving designers, manufacturers, contractors, and operators.

CADE provides:

Objective and independent analysis
Forensic investigations and failure diagnostics
Technical evidence review and reporting
Written and oral expert testimony for court proceedings, arbitrations, mediations, or advisory panels

These services are particularly valuable in sectors such as Oil & Gas, Power & Energy, and other industries involving operational or catastrophic failure scenarios.