Services

Metallographic Sample Preparation

Metallographic specimen preparation, also called precision metallurgical sample preparation, is a key step in performing reliable metallurgical testing. This type of testing often involves evaluating the microstructure of materials through optical magnification or scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It is essential that all microscopy sample preparation, including SEM preparation, be completed carefully and properly for image clarity.

How Does LTI Conduct Metallographic Sample Preparation?

The preparation of a sample is crucial to the accuracy of the metallographic analysis. Microstructure and hardness of a sample must be revealed, and you must be confident that what you see is actually there, not just something created during preparation. You can’t skip steps during metallographic sample preparation.

LTI Metallographic Sample Preparation Capabilities

Extent of decarburization and carburization
Grain size
Intergranular attack
Depth of alpha case in titanium alloys
Percent spheroidization
Inclusion rating
Volume fraction of various phases or second phase particles in metals
Evaluation of welds
Evaluation and identification of typical microstructures of metals to confirm structure or property relationships (e.g., tempered martensite in steels)
Precision cutting
1.5″ and 2″ standard mounts
Nonstandard mounting
Thermoset and thermoplastic mounting
Cold mounting
Automatic grinding and polishing
Immersion, swab, and electrolytic etching

Samples are prepared in our metallurgical lab using precision cutting, mounting, grinding, and polishing techniques, as well as etching when required.

I am finally getting around to reading all the information you sent and I just wanted to say thank you. So far the service, quality of the reports and delivery that your team has provided has been nothing short of spectacular! Please let your staff know that it does not go unnoticed! We look forward to more business with you!

I would like to thank you and the associated departments at LTI that have helped delivered these reports in a short turnaround time. Our customer appreciates it.

We’ve counted on LTI for many years to handle all of our testing needs because we know their work is always done with quality and integrity. The LTI team is an important part of our success in the metals Industry.

LTI has seriously made a huge difference in Testing & especially Metallography. They Define Possible

I just wanted to thank the team at LTI for all of your expedited help in getting our order inspected. We were able to deliver these items to our customer on time and with all required documentation. Look forward to our continued partnership in the future.

Thanks for the prompt service on this request. Please extend our gratitude to all those on your testing team who got the work done for us. We really needed this information today, and we are deeply indebted to LTI for making it happen.

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Laboratory Testing Inc. has the capacity and capabilities to handle all your material testing needs in a single location. Since 1984, we’ve aided customers worldwide with accurate nondestructive testing and precise material lab services. Request a quote or contact us today to see how our industry-leading turnaround times can keep your mission-critical approvals moving forward.

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