Business Details
41 Years
experience
Expert Metallurgical Analysis & Failure Investigation Services
Fowler, Inc. is a professional engineering consulting firm founded in 1985 by Dr. Gary J. Fowler, a registered metallurgical engineer with over 40 years of experience. Our team comprises M.S. and Ph.D. level engineers specializing in metallurgy, material science, and failure analysis. Collectively, our consultants have over 100 years of experience conducting examinations of components and mechanical systems globally. We operate a 9,100-square-foot facility in Gardena, California, equipped for laboratory analysis, field inspections, and mechanical testing. Our services include metallurgical analysis, failure analysis, and material science evaluations for complex systems ranging from aircraft to industrial equipment.We provide both in-lab and on-site evaluations, combining advanced technology with decades of expertise. Our clients benefit from our rigorous methodology, which includes fracture surface analysis, corrosion studies, and scanning electron microscopy. We maintain a secure, spacious facility capable of handling large-scale components like airplanes and ship containers. Our commitment to precision and technical excellence has established us as a trusted partner for global clients. We prioritize transparency, scientific rigor, and actionable insights to resolve complex engineering challenges.
Services
Metallurgical Analysis
Failure Analysis
Material Analysis
Scanning Electron Microscopy
Mechanical Testing
Details
- Year established: 1985
Highlights and features
- We have over 40 years of specialized experience in metallurgical engineering.
- Our team includes Ph.D. level engineers with expertise in failure analysis.
- We serve clients globally with both lab and field evaluation capabilities.
- Our 9,100 sq ft facility supports analysis of large-scale mechanical systems.
- We combine scanning electron microscopy with hands-on mechanical testing.
Services
Metallurgical Analysis
Our metallurgical analysis identifies material properties and failure mechanisms using advanced techniques like microscopy and spectroscopy. We evaluate microstructure, composition, and mechanical behavior to determine root causes of failure. Clients receive detailed reports with actionable recommendations for improving component longevity and performance.
Failure Analysis
We investigate mechanical failures in components and systems through systematic evaluation of fracture surfaces and environmental factors. Our process includes field inspections, lab testing, and simulation to identify contributing factors. Clients gain clear insights into failure modes and preventive measures tailored to their industry.
Scanning Electron Microscopy
Our scanning electron microscopy (SEM) provides high-resolution imaging and compositional analysis of material surfaces. This technique detects micro-scale defects, corrosion patterns, and fracture characteristics. Results support failure analysis and quality control for aerospace, automotive, and industrial applications.
Mechanical Testing
We conduct mechanical testing to assess material strength, fatigue resistance, and fracture mechanics under controlled conditions. Tests include tensile, impact, and hardness evaluations to validate performance specifications. Data informs design improvements and compliance with industry standards.
Corrosion Studies
Our corrosion studies determine degradation mechanisms in metals exposed to harsh environments. We analyze corrosion products, stress cracking, and protective coating effectiveness. Clients receive mitigation strategies to extend asset lifespan in marine, industrial, and chemical processing contexts.
People
Dr. Gary J. Fowler
Founder/President
Dr. Fowler is a registered metallurgical engineer with a Ph.D. from UCLA. He has over 40 years of experience in failure analysis and material science. He lectures at universities and operates Fowler, Inc.'s laboratory facility in California.
Michael Neff
Engineer
Michael Neff specializes in metallurgical analysis and mechanical testing. He contributes expertise in fracture mechanics and nondestructive evaluation techniques. His work supports investigations into component failures across aerospace and industrial sectors.
Questions
What industries do Fowler, Inc. serve?
We serve aerospace, automotive, marine, and industrial manufacturing sectors globally.
Can you analyze large mechanical systems?
Yes, our facility handles components up to airplane and ship container sizes.
Do you perform on-site inspections?
Yes, we conduct field evaluations of mechanical systems and equipment failures.
What testing methods are used?
We use SEM, spectroscopy, mechanical stress tests, and nondestructive evaluation techniques.
How do you determine failure causes?
We combine fracture surface analysis, corrosion studies, and material property testing.
