Metallographic Examination

PMI SPECIALISTS, INC "WHEN YOU NEED TO KNOW"

Metallographic Examination

Metallography is the microscopic study of the structure of metals and their alloys. A piece of metal or alloy is composed of grains that change in size and shape, various phases like ferrite and austenite in steel, precipitates like carbide or nitride, and many times, microscopic flaws such as cracks or unwanted materials. There microscopic features are made or changed by fabrication processes, such as casting, forging, machining, welding, heat treating and coating. The importance of learning the microstructure of metal and alloy lies in the mechanical properties (strength and ductility) and environment resistance are strongly related to their microstructures.

Metallographic examination is performed at PMI Specialists by highly experienced metallographers using state of art optical microscope equipped with professional digital camera and image analysis software. Scanning electron microscope is also used when higher resolution and micro-chemical analysis are required. On-site metallographic investigation is also available upon request.

PMI Specialists has full range of metallographic preparation capabilities from sectioning, mounting, grinding and polishing stages to proper selection and etching techniques (chemical and eletrochemical) of the tested materials.

We offer a variety of analysis including:

        # ASTM Grain Size Analysis
        # Particle Size/distribution
        # Coating Thickness and Case Depth
        # Inclusions and specks
        # Ferrite/Pearlite
        # Porosity
        # Grain Flow Pattern
        # Phase Area Fraction
        # Flake Size Classification
        # Nodularity