What is Field Metallography?

The procedure is carried out in the field without the need to remove a component.  Field Metallography describes the practice of performing microstructural analysis outside the metallurgical laboratory. It can include everything from grain sizing of titanium forgings on a production floor all the way to steam boiler failure analysis on a ship.   Now the metallographic sample preparations can be done on-site, prepared on extensive grounds or on large components.  Using the etching to electrolytically etching. The electrolytic etching is no alternative, particularly for alloy steels. This process can be conducted in the field without the need to remove any components. When metallographic replication is underway, the component being tested can be left in service. 

• Grinding/polishing
• Motorized or portable handheld grinding/polishing device (META-POL)
• Rubber stubs used for grinding and polishing paper cloths
• Adhesive-backed grinding paper discs (60, 120, 240, 320, 400, 600 grit in separate plastic bags/containers)
• Polishing cloth discs (META series under polishing cloth)
• Diamond paste (9, 6, 3, 1 µm)
• Plastic bottle containing alcohol/acetone
• Cotton balls for swabbing and cleaning
• Etching
• Plastic bottles containing premixed etchants (screw caps)
• Cotton balls for swabbing
• Rubber gloves
• Replication
• Replicating System (thickness: 20-45 µm)
• Bottle containing acetone or methyl acetate solvent
• Tweezers
• Box containing standard glass slides
• Double-sided adhesive tape
• Black spray paint
• In site examination of micro-structure
• Portable upright microscope
• Camera attachment included
• Miscellaneous
• Absorbent cloths/paper towels
• Flashlight depending on the luminescence in the work area
• Safety equipment (glasses, safety goggles, hardhat)