Defect

Flaws, which can grow in size or shape when subjected to normal operation stress (stresses which are expected during “normal” operation) are defined as defects. The term flaw and defect are sometimes inadvertently interchanged. All flaws are not defects but all defects are flaws. A flaw can exist and remain within a structure in a benign condition for years. If, however, the stress applied to that structure increases to a new and higher level and/or a previous static stress begins to alternate the previously benign flaw can begin to grow or extend. After a flaw begins to grow, it is classified as a defect.