Meta1435.docVIP

MatSE 471 Laboratories la-c Specimen Preparation and Use of the Optical Microscope Objectives The objectives in laboratories 1a-c are to prepare polished and etched samples for examination in the optical microscope and to record and print the images. This examination of polished and etched surfaces is called METALLOGRAPHY. Background General A number of methods are available for analyzing metals and alloy systems. These include thermal analysis, dilatometry, x-ray analysis, electrical conductivity, microscopy, etc. Metallography is one of the most important tools in the field of physical metallurgy. It deals chiefly with the internal structure of the solid and the relation of this structure to the properties of the material and any problems (such as fracture) that may have been encountered in its service. Magnifications involved are usually in the range of 10 to 2000X; thus a microscope is employed, and the structures are usually called microstructures. Metallography is essentially an art, and various persons may have or develop their own individual techniques, but the methods to be used here are of a general nature and will produce satisfactory results. Certain variations may be required for different materials. In general, the procedure for preparation of metallographic specimens consists of the following steps: 1. Obtaining a convenient specimen for handling by sawing, cutting, mounting, etc. 2. Preparation of a flat surface by means of files, belt sanders, etc. 3. Sanding with a series of abrasive papers of increasing grit fineness 4. Polishing on rotating wheels covered with suitable surfaces and abrasives Considerable latitude exists as to specific preparation procedures. The objective of these four steps is to produce a scratch-free, undistorted mirror-like surface. Care and cleanliness cannot be overemphasized. Following preparation, the specimens must be etched with the proper reagent before examination under the microscope. Since