Microscopic examinations
- General microstructure
- Carburization & decarburization
- Grain size
- Plating & coating thickness
- Carbide precipitation
- Ferrite by manual point count
- Intergranular attack & oxidation
- Nodularity, nodule count, graphite form
Overview
Understand behaviour through microstructure
The behaviour of metals stems from their microstructure, shaped by fabrication methods and post-treatments such as heat treatment and welding. We conduct microstructural analysis to study reactions to mechanical forming, heat treatment, and welding, assess component lifespan and material degradation properties, and develop solutions during failure analysis. Specimens are prepared by cutting, grinding, polishing, etching, and mounting before examination.
Tell us the processing route and service history; we’ll align preparation and etching to reveal the
right features.
Scope
We perform two kinds of examinations
Macroscopic examinations
- Macro etch
- Weld penetration
- Grain flow
Preparation
Currently available sample preparation methods
Cutting & Mounting
- Precision cutting
- Thermoset & thermoplastic mounting
- Cold mounting
- Silicon mounts
Finishing & Revealing
- Hand grinding and polishing
- Immersion, swab, and electrolytic etching
Capabilities
Capabilities & standards
Optical to electron microscopy
High-magnification inspections from 50× to 1000×, and higher using SEM/TEM as required.
Standardized methodologies
Metallography organized through specific ASTM standards with image-analysis software.
Quality & accreditation
ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited laboratory practices and reporting.
Get in touch
Talk to an expert
Share alloy, process history, and desired examinations. We’ll confirm preparation route, etchants, and reporting format.