Metallographic examination is only as good as the specimen. A poorly cut, badly mounted or insufficiently polished sample introduces scratches, deformation and pull-out that are mistaken for real structure. Preparation is therefore a sequence of controlled steps, each with its own equipment.
Yikmo supplies the full sequence: precision cut-off machines, hot mounting presses, grinding and polishing machines, and the consumables that go with them.
Sectioning: a precision cut-off machine with the correct blade and coolant produces a flat cut with minimal deformation. Abrasive cutting is used for hard metals; diamond wafering blades for brittle or thin samples.
Mounting: the specimen is encapsulated in resin so it can be handled and so edges are protected during polishing. Hot mounting is faster and harder; cold mounting is used for heat-sensitive or porous samples.
Grinding and polishing: successive steps from 120 grit through 9 µm, 3 µm and 1 µm diamond suspension remove the damage from the previous step. Each step must remove the damage introduced by the one before it.
Etching: the polished surface is etched to reveal grain boundaries and phases. Etchant choice depends on the alloy.
| Cut-off machine | Choose the wheel size and motor power by the largest section you need to cut. Automatic feed gives repeatable cuts and avoids burning. |
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| Mounting press | A 30–50 mm mould covers most samples. Check the maximum temperature if you mount heat-sensitive materials. |
| Polisher | A variable-speed platen with a water-resistant surface; automatic heads improve repeatability when you prepare many samples. |
| Consumables | Silicon carbide paper, diamond suspension and polishing cloths must match the material and the step. |
Usually because a step was skipped or not run long enough. Each step must fully remove the damage from the previous one; contamination between steps also causes scratches.
For occasional samples, manual polishing is fine. For routine quality control with several samples per day, an automatic head gives repeatable results and frees the operator.
Hot mounting uses a press and thermoplastic resin — fast and hard, but applies heat and pressure. Cold mounting uses a two-part resin that cures at room temperature, suitable for heat-sensitive or porous samples.
Send us the material and what you need to measure. We reply within one business day with a specification and quotation.
