FIELD: testing engineering. ^ SUBSTANCE: method includes applying a material of high infrared (IR) radiation capability on the surface of the structure, repeatedly loading of the structure, recording intensity of the IR radiation at the site of the local heating of the structure, and measuring temperature rise and rigidity at all sites of heating. The coincidence of the maximums of rigidity and temperature rise indicates the site of potential failure. ^ EFFECT: enhanced reliability. ^ 1 dwg