Standard-compliant material testing - microscopy and individual evaluations

Metallographic microstructure analysis provides crucial information about the structure, phase distribution, degree of purity and possible irregularities of metallic materials. It is a key tool for quality assurance, damage analysis and process optimization. In the encontec test laboratory, we combine state-of-the-art preparation technology, high-resolution microscopy and digital image analysis to provide precise, reproducible and standard-compliant microstructure characterization. In addition to classic test methods, we also offer customer-specific special evaluations, which we develop individually according to your specifications.

Our services:

  • Macrosections and microsections
  • Grain size, purity and porosity analyses
  • Phase and microstructure component determination
  • Coating thickness measurement (microscope / SEM)
  • Weld seam evaluation according to DIN EN ISO 5817
  • Target preparations on defects and cracks

 

Your benefit: Standard-compliant, reproducible and meaningful microstructure data - ideal for incoming goods, production control and damage analysis. Request a microstructure analysis now - we deliver precise results in the shortest possible time.
 

Your request

Our services in microstructure analysis

In the encontec test laboratory, we examine metallic materials, coatings and weld seams using state-of-the-art microscopy and digital image analysis. Our microstructure analyses provide clear, reliable results for quality assurance, process optimization and damage analysis.

 

Professional sample preparation

We prepare samples professionally for a meaningful metallographic examination:

  • Macrosections and microsections
  • Embedding (cold/warm)
  • Target preparations on defects, cracks or fracture surfaces
  • Preparation of coatings, weld seams and cast joints

 

Materials and structures that can be examined

We analyze a wide range of metallic materials:

  • Steels, aluminum, titanium and copper alloys
  • Thermal spray coatings, zinc and galvanic coatings
  • Weld seams incl. evaluation according to DIN EN ISO 5817
  • Cast iron and special materials

 

Qualitative and quantitative microstructure evaluations

Our metallographic examinations include

  • Grain size determination
  • Purity and porosity analyses
  • Phase and microstructure component determination
  • Material-specific microstructure components (e.g. for titanium alloys)
  • Coating tests incl. structure, homogeneity and adhesion
  • Delta ferrite determination
  • Metallographic evaluation according to standard or customer specification
  • Digital image analysis and point counting method

 

Metrological investigations

For precise quantitative results we offer:

  • Coating thickness determination from 5 µm in the reflected light microscope (DIN EN ISO 1463)
  • Layer thicknesses < 5 µm in the SEM*
  • Measurement of microstructure components and microstructures
  • Further specific measurements on the microsection

 

Modern equipment for reliable results

Our metallography is equipped with high-quality precision technology:

  • Manual and automatic cut-off machines
  • Warm embedding press
  • Manual and semi-automatic grinding and polishing tables
  • Extensive range of etching agents for different materials
  • Photo location for macro shots
  • Stereomicroscope (6-40×) with image database
  • Two reflected light microscopes (25-1000×) with evaluation software
  • Bright-field and dark-field microscopy
  • Digital image analysis with structured documentation

 

Your added value - microstructure analysis with encontec

Quality assurance & incoming goods inspection

Independent microstructure evaluation to safeguard materials and components.

Process optimization & error prevention

Proof of process stability and derivation of targeted optimization measures.

Damage analysis

Well-founded root cause analysis of component failure through detailed microstructure analysis.

Proof of material quality

Evaluation of microstructure, phase distribution and degree of purity.

Reduction of waste & follow-up costs

Early identification of deviations and defects.

encontec -
Your partner for metallographic microstructure analysis

Precise, standard-compliant, reproducible - for reliable decisions in development, production and failure analysis.