In-Situ Metallography

What it is

Field metallography is widely used for microstructure analysis of large structures that cannot easily be moved or where destructive sample preparation is impractical. It brings the examination to the asset (storage tanks, piping, machinery, boilers, and aging high-temperature pressure vessels) rather than the asset to the lab.

What it reveals

The technique enables rapid, on-site assessment of a component's metallurgical condition and heat-treatment status. Working with portable equipment, our analysts identify grain characteristics, carbide formations, cracks, and unwanted phases while maintaining quality equivalent to laboratory analysis. It is considered most effective for detecting high-temperature hydrogen attack (HTHA) and early-stage stress corrosion cracking.

Where it applies

• Materials identification
• Health monitoring of in-service equipment
• Remaining-life evaluations
• Failure investigation work

How we do it

PMI Specialists uses portable grinding and polishing equipment to prepare the surface on-site, followed by field-microscope examination to verify polish quality. Chemical etchants then reveal the microstructural features, with electrochemical etching available when a particular alloy or condition requires it.

Advanced capabilities

We offer proprietary high-magnification micrography at 1000x and field replica services, using acetate film or silicone-based resin, that capture the prepared surface for later optical or electron-microscope analysis back in the laboratory.