Metallography Lab
Optical Microscopy | Profilometery

Capabilities
The Metallography lab encompasses all of the equipment necessary for the preparation of samples prior to analysis by the other instruments in the facility. Metallography also includes TEM sample Preparation, Metal Deposition and Profilometery.

Sectioning
Macro sectioning can be accomplished with a reciprocating saw or an abrasive wheel cutter. For more delicate cuts there are two low speed saws and a diamond wire saw.

Polishing/Grinding
The lab contains several 8" grinding/polishing wheels with one that has a variable speed adjust. The wheels are equiped with a magnetic disc system so that individuals can keep their pads free of contamination from others. For precision grinding there are several lapping jigs for incrementally removing a set amount of material. Fine polishing can be accomplished on a SSM vibratory polisher with fine polishing media. Precision grinding/polishing can be performed on the Multiprep system which has a material removal monitor and micrometers for adjusting pitch and width.

Mounting
Cold mount materials are available for potting samples in mounts from 1" and greater.

Etching
A fume hood, protective equipment and chemicals are available for etching polished samples. An electropolisher is also available.

Hardness Testing
A rockwell hardness tester is available for determination of large scale hardness. A vickers hardness tester is also available for small scale hardness testing.