Metallographic evaluations

KEMA performs metallographic evaluations to investigate the materials' physical structure. Through these metallographic evaluations, the failure mode of the components can be assessed

One of the most frequently used methods of assessing the damage to a component is to investigate the materials' characteristics. Metallography is used in materials development, incoming inspection, production and manufacturing control, and failure analysis.

By studying the materials' physical structure, a great deal can be said about:
> structural specifications
> material fabrication
> heat treatment
> material degradation
> surface effects
> effect of coating

Sample preparation
We use only automated sample preparation techniques that meet the highest quality standards no matter what material is investigated. When selecting a sample for metallographic evaluation in a failed component, our specialists focus on the main point of interest and make a selection for sample preparation. The samples are sectioned, embedded, ground and polished. The sample is cleaned and examined with light microscopy for possible cracks, voids, oxidation, corrosion, coating degradation, e.g.: anything that might be a lead to a possible cause of failure.

Etching
Based on the light microscopy examination, the sample can be etched to reveal its true structure. After etching more detail is revealed regarding grain boundaries, precipitates, inclusions, composition, carbides, and much more. This set of information is used for analysing the components' failure mode.