Case 1344 ยท Public preview
Exposed Dendrites Can Reveal a Leak Path through a Solder Seal
A solder seal at a metal-cap fill inlet leaked, and the center of the solder button appeared darker than the surrounding material.
Surface examinationMetallographic microsectioningBSE SEMEDSSolidification-microstructure interpretation
What the evidence preview establishes
The leak path was formed by central shrinkage cavities produced as the last region of the solder seal solidified without enough liquid metal to fill the contracting volume. Fine-scale structure and slight silver redistribution suggested that rapid cooling may have aggravated the shrinkage.
Why this case matters
Inspect a solder seal as a small casting. Exposed dendrites or a dark central cavity can signal shrinkage open to the surface; screening under moderate magnification and controlling the cooling history may prevent apparently filled seals from containing continuous leak paths.
Full evidence reserved for MEMBER and STOREThe complete case includes the evidence sequence, 4 interpreted figures, alternative explanations, limitations, and practical application guidance.