Guides organized by topic: Basics, Process, Material-Specific, and Application-Specific.
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Fundamentals for beginners.
Learn the fundamentals of metallography, including what it is, why it matters, and how it's used in materials science and engineering.
Read GuideDiscover the various applications of metallography in quality control, failure analysis, research, and materials development.
Read GuideExplore the evolution of metallography from its origins to modern techniques. Understand how the field has developed over time.
Read GuideLearn about the essential equipment used in metallography, from sectioning equipment to microscopes. Understand what equipment you need for metallographic sample preparation.
Read GuideEssential safety practices for metallography laboratories. Learn about chemical safety, equipment safety, personal protective equipment, and safe work practices.
Read GuideLearn about common mistakes and misconceptions beginners make in metallography. Avoid these pitfalls and develop better metallographic practices.
Read GuideStep-by-step preparation techniques.
Overview of sample sectioning techniques including saw selection, cutting parameters, and minimizing damage during the cutting process.
Read GuideOverview of mounting procedures including compression mounting, castable mounting, and selecting appropriate mounting materials.
Read GuideOverview of grinding with proper grit selection, pressure control, and technique. Learn progressive grinding methods for optimal surface quality.
Read GuideOverview of polishing techniques for different materials and applications. Covers diamond polishing, oxide polishing, and final polishing strategies.
Read GuideOverview of etching techniques, reagent selection, and application methods. Learn how to reveal microstructures effectively and safely.
Read GuideComplete guide to preparing samples for microscopy, choosing the right microscope, and interpreting common microstructures in metals and alloys.
Read GuideDetailed guides for specific materials.
In-depth guide for preparing aluminum samples without smearing or deformation. Learn proper techniques for soft materials and avoid common pitfalls.
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In-depth procedures for preparing carbon steel samples, from low to high carbon content. Covers proper etching for pearlite and ferrite structures.
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Complete guide to preparing ceramic samples for metallographic analysis. Covers sectioning hard materials, avoiding chipping, and revealing grain boundaries.
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In-depth techniques for preparing composite materials including fiber-reinforced composites. Learn to avoid pullout, maintain fiber orientation, and reveal interfaces.
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In-depth preparation methods for copper and its alloys, including brass and bronze. Learn techniques to avoid smearing and reveal true microstructures.
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Specialized techniques for preparing magnesium and magnesium alloys. Learn how to handle reactive materials and avoid oxidation artifacts.
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Comprehensive guide for preparing nickel and nickel-based superalloys. Learn techniques for handling high-temperature alloys and revealing complex microstructures.
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Complete in-depth guide to preparing stainless steel samples for metallographic analysis, including sectioning, mounting, grinding, polishing, and etching techniques.
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In-depth specialized techniques for preparing titanium samples, including handling reactive surfaces and proper etching methods for alpha and beta phases.
Read GuideAdvanced techniques for specialized applications.
Complete guide to preparing additive manufacturing samples for metallographic analysis. Learn techniques for handling porosity, layer boundaries, support structures, and revealing build direction and process defects.
Read GuideComprehensive guide to metallographic analysis for aerospace applications, covering titanium and superalloy preparation, fatigue and creep damage assessment, coating analysis, and industry-specific standards.
Read GuideComplete guide to metallographic analysis for automotive applications, covering steel and aluminum processing verification, heat treatment validation, weld quality assessment, and industry-specific quality requirements.
Read GuideComplete guide to metallographic analysis of cast materials including solidification structure analysis, dendrite arm spacing measurement, casting defect identification, and grain size control.
Read GuideComplete guide to preparing cross-sections for coating thickness measurement, case depth analysis (carburizing, nitriding), surface modification evaluation, and preserving coating integrity during preparation.
Read GuideLearn about failure analysis techniques in metallography, including fracture analysis, root cause investigation, and material failure mechanisms.
Read GuideComplete guide to grain size analysis including ASTM E112 compliance, different measurement methods (comparison charts, intercept, planimetric, image analysis), and application-specific requirements.
Read GuideIn-depth specialized preparation techniques for samples that will undergo hardness testing. Ensure accurate results with proper surface preparation.
Read GuideComplete guide to verifying heat treatment effectiveness through metallographic analysis, including case depth measurement, decarburization detection, and microstructure validation for different heat treatment processes.
Read GuideComprehensive guide to metallographic analysis for medical device applications, covering biocompatible material preparation, surface finish requirements, implant material characterization, and regulatory compliance considerations.
Read GuideComplete guide to preparing printed circuit boards (PCBs) and semiconductor chips for metallographic analysis. Learn controlled removal techniques, ATTO polishing, and precision preparation methods essential for electronics failure analysis and quality control.
Read GuideIn-depth guide on how to evaluate sample quality, identify preparation artifacts, and ensure your samples meet industry standards for metallographic analysis.
Read GuideComplete guide to preparing weld samples for metallographic analysis, including weld zone, HAZ, and fusion boundary preparation for different welding methods.
Read GuideSolutions for common preparation issues.