In-situ Metallography

How It Works

 

On-Site Surface Examination: In-situ metallography involves the direct examination of metal microstructures on-site without removing the component.

Surface Preparation: The metal surface is polished and etched using portable tools to reveal the grain structure.

Microscopic Analysis: A portable microscope (optical or digital) is used to analyze the microstructure of the material.

Image Capture and Documentation: High-resolution micrographs are taken to record the condition of the material at the microscopic level.

What It’s Used For

 

Damage Assessment: Identifies degradation mechanisms such as creep, fatigue, corrosion, and thermal damage in components.

Material Verification: Confirms metallurgical properties and heat treatment condition of metals.

Life Assessment of Components: Used in boilers, pipelines, pressure vessels, and turbines to determine remaining life and maintenance needs.

Failure Investigation: Provides key insights during root cause analysis of material failures.

Quality Assurance: Ensures materials meet required microstructural standards during manufacturing or after service.

Benefits

 

Non-Destructive Nature: Does not require cutting or removing samples, preserving equipment integrity.

On-Site Analysis: Enables real-time decision-making without transporting heavy components to a lab.

Early Detection of Material Degradation: Helps prevent costly breakdowns and improves maintenance planning.

Cost and Time Efficient: Minimizes downtime and inspection costs compared to conventional lab analysis.

Comprehensive Microstructure Evaluation: Offers valuable data for engineering, metallurgical, and operational assessments.