What is a common cause of mechanical failure in components?

Fatigue or wear is a common cause of mechanical failure in components due to the cumulative effect of repeated stress cycles that materials experience during operation. Over time, materials can develop microscopic cracks or distortions from the continuous loads they encounter, which can lead to a sudden failure when these defects propagate. This process is exacerbated in components subjected to fluctuating stresses, high loads, or prolonged operating conditions.

Fatigue is a critical factor to consider in engineering design, as it highlights the importance of selecting appropriate materials, implementing effective maintenance schedules, and ensuring that components are designed to withstand the expected load cycles. Understanding the mechanisms behind fatigue and wear helps in anticipating when a component might fail, allowing for proactive measures, such as inspections and replacements, to prevent unexpected downtime or hazardous situations.