The work of Michael DeHarde, P.E. and Brian Darr, P.E. was featured in Claims Magazine’s November Issue in the Subrogation Tips Section. The mechanical engineers undertook a project to investigate a large number of braided stainless steel water heater connector failures for one of the largest property carriers in the country. The evaluation and testing occurred at the U.S. Forensic engineering and testing laboratory where engineers utilized a customized durometer to test the hardness of the internal plastic tubing of the connectors and an articulating borescope to photograph any interior damage of the failed lines. Their task was to determine the cause of the leaks associated with the braided stainless steel brand water heater connectors commonly sold at the major big box hardware centers.
After analyzing multiple connectors of differing sizes, the findings were consistent. The testing revealed that the leaks were the result of the inner plastic tubes prematurely decomposing and flaking apart. This material defect led to a breach of the internal wall which caused the water release and the resultant damages at the various properties across the country.
To view the entire article, click on Water Heater Connector Article.
