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Thermal Spray Coating (Tungsten-Cobalt)
Specimen Preparation (Class 7 Procedures)
Metallographic Class 7 sample preparation  

The metallographic specimen preparation of thermal spray coatings is affected by the specimen composition and deposition conditions. Microstructural features of interest include: porosity, flow, thickness and inclusions. Proper metallurgical preparation takes into account that the microstructure may be porous and perhaps somewhat brittle because of inadequate processing. Following proper cutting to avoid creating undue damage, the specimen is generally mounted in either a castable epoxy or acrylic.

SECTIONING
MAXCUT Abrasive blade (Cat. No. MAX-E or MAX-I series) (if required)

MOUNTING
Compression Mounting fine EPOCOMP Epoxy compression mounting resins

POLISHING
Abrasive/surface Lubricant Force/ sample Speed
(Head/base)
Time Individual
Force mode
Central Force
mode
240 grit SiC paper*
Water
5-10 lbs 200/200 rpm Planar
  Metallographic central polishing force
320 grit SiC paper
400 grit SiC paper
600 grit SiC paper
800 grit SiC paper
1200 grit SiC paper
Water
5-10 lbs 200/200 rpm 1 min
1 min
1 min
1 min
1 min
Metallographic individual polishing force Metallographic central polishing force
3 um DIAMAT diamond
on GOLDPAD
DIALUBE Purple
Extender
5 lbs 200/200 rpm 2 min Metallographic individual polishing force Metallographic central polishing force
1 um DIAMAT diamond on
ATLANTIS polishing pad
SIAMAT Colloidal
Silica
10 lbs 200/200 rpm 2 min Metallographic individual polishing force Metallographic central polishing force
0.05 um NANOMETER Alumina
on MICROPAD polishing pad
Vibratory Polishing 15-30 min  

*Required for central polishing force. Click here for more information on central vs. individual polishing force polishing.

Metallographic micrograph of NiCr plasma spray coating
Tungsten-Cobalt Thermal Spray Coating, as polished.
Mag 200x (B.F.)
Metallographic micrograph of NiCr plasma spray coating
Tungsten-Cobalt Thermal Spray Coating, polished-etched
with Vibratory Polisher, Mag 1000x (B.F.)

ETCHING

Common Etchants
PACE Technologies Recommended Etchants

PACE Technologies Etchant Database

CAUTION:Safety is very important when etching. Be sure to wear the appropriate protective clothing and observe all WARNINGS on chemical manufacuters SDS (Safety Data Sheets). Also review the COMMENTS and CONDITIONS Section for each etchant.


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