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ASB recently installed new equipment replacing an older polisher in our Metallography Lab. Working with Allied High Tech, ASB purchased a multiple specimen polisher with the newest software and hardware. Consumables were identified in Allied’s product line for best polishing results for use in thermal spray metallography sample preparation.

Metallography is the preparation of specimens for microscopic examination and the study of microstructure in relation to the physical and mechanical properties of a particular material. Metallographic examination of coated specimens (by different methods) is important in the development and implementation of these technologies. Metallographic preparation of such specimens is not a trivial matter as the affected surfaces can be badly damaged or altered by the use of poor practices. Beyond this, the preparation method must reveal the true structure so that it can be properly interpreted, measured, evaluated and documented. Every step of the procedure must be properly executed if the examination is to yield maximum value. The ASB Metallography Lab has an advanced grinder and polisher to quickly and properly prepare the mounted samples. The microstructure of the coated samples (after grinding and polishing) will be examined by using the optical microscope or stereomicroscope. Optical microscope is equipped with digital camera. Microstructural analysis plays a vital role in the formation of thermally, plasma and cold-sprayed coatings. Laboratory professional personnel are able to examine the coating features in a confident and cost-effective manner, due to the advances made in consumable technology and equipment.

Microstructural analysis has been crucial in the creation of new thermally, plasma and cold--sprayed coatings for many applications, including automotive, aerospace, bio-technology, defense, electronic, petroleum and others.