Bus Door Failure

Metallurgical failure analysis was requested after a bus door failure. The failed bus door opening mechanism is shown in Photograph A.

Photograph A: Overall view of failed bus door opening mechanism prior to removal from the subject bus.

Examination and analysis focused on the door opening mechanism and the mounting plate for the door opening mechanism.  The mounting plate for the door opening mechanism was observed to be visibly deformed. The design of the plate was also analyzed. The cause of the failure was determined to be deficient design. The door opening mechanism support plate was too thin. This design defect resulted in deformation of the bus door opening mechanism and unexpected opening of the bus door.

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