How can we help?
Prep procedures, materials, and answers from the team that builds your equipment. Real people, based in the US.
Frequently asked questions
Filter by category, or type to search across all questions.
How quickly will I hear back from support?
Our average response is under 24 business hours, and most messages get a first reply the same business day. That first response may be the answer, a follow-up question, or a time to jump on a call, depending on what you need.
What information should I include when I submit a request?
The more context the better. We usually need:
- Equipment model and (if you have it) serial number
- A clear description of the symptom or question
- Any error messages or unusual behavior
- Photos or short videos of the issue or sample
- What you’ve already tried
Can I just call instead of using the form?
Yes. We’d rather you call than wait. Reach us at (520) 882-6598, Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Arizona time. The form is best when you need to send photos, attachments, or detailed notes a technician can review on their own time.
Do you offer on-site service?
Yes. If we can’t resolve an issue remotely, we’ll coordinate on-site service through a PACE technician or an authorized regional service partner. KeepPACE plan customers get priority scheduling. See the plans.
What does my warranty cover?
Warranty coverage varies by product line and configuration. Send us your equipment model and either the purchase date or serial number, and we'll confirm exactly what's covered and for how long.
I just received new equipment. What’s next?
Every PACE machine ships with a quickstart and a manual. For larger systems we can also schedule on-site installation, calibration, and operator training. Just open a request below and we’ll set it up. See our installation and training services.
How do I find the recommended prep procedure for my material?
Start with our preparation procedures, which organize materials into 11 prep classes with step-by-step sectioning, mounting, grinding, polishing, and etching parameters. If you’re not sure which class your alloy falls into, send us a quick note. We can usually point you to the closest match.
Which etchant should I use to reveal a specific structure?
Our etchant reference lists reagents by material family with target structures and procedure notes. Pair that with the SDS sheets before handling. When in doubt, send us a photo of your microstructure goal and we'll recommend the closest etchant from our line.
Help with scratched, smeared, or edge-rounded samples?
Send us photos of the prepared surface (at magnification if possible) along with your current grinding/polishing recipe, load, time, and consumables. Edge rounding and scratching usually trace back to a specific step. Once we see the recipe we can almost always pinpoint it.
Can I order replacement parts?
Yes. Most consumables and common parts are available at shop.metallographic.com. For service-specific or custom parts, send us the equipment model and the part you need. We’ll get you pricing and availability, and many parts ship same-day.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we ship worldwide and have authorized distribution partners in many countries. International customers often get faster service and local-currency pricing by going through a regional partner. Tell us your location and we’ll connect you.
How do I get a price quote?
Use our quote request form for itemized pricing on equipment and consumables. We accept purchase orders, credit cards, and wire transfers, and can set up net-30 terms for qualified accounts.
What's included in the KeepPACE service program?
KeepPACE is our annual service program: scheduled preventive maintenance, priority phone and email support, discounted parts, and dedicated technicians who know your equipment. Plans scale from a basic annual check-in to full coverage. See plan details and pricing.
No questions match that search. Try a different keyword, or open a ticket below.
Still stuck? Talk to us directly.
Real people in Tucson, Arizona. We answer the phone and reply to every ticket.
Open a support ticket
Best for detailed questions, photos, or anything our team should review on their own time.