Beschreibung:
The paper presents the results of research conducted to determine the causes that led to the fracture of a motor shaft component from an electric surgical motor used in orthopedic surgery.The chemical and structural analysis emphasized a structure rich in complex silicate and sulfides inclusions. They form areas of weakness, acting like stress concentrators which induce fatigue shaft breakage. Their high density and non-uniform shape and distribution suggest a non-adequate technology of making and casting of steel, destinated to work in difficult conditions and having an important operational role.