Sequential abrasive steps from coarse SiC paper through diamond suspensions to remove deformation and achieve a scratch-free surface for optical etching and microscopy.
Sequential abrasive steps from coarse SiC paper through diamond suspensions to remove deformation and achieve a scratch-free surface for optical etching and microscopy.
Grinding and polishing removes sectioning damage (burning, tearing, plastic flow) and progressively refines scratches until the surface reflects a mirror finish suitable for optical metallography. Each step uses finer abrasive and lighter pressure than the prior step to avoid embedding coarse grit and to keep deformation depth shallow.
Planar grinding on SiC papers establishes coplanarity between mount and specimen. Fine grinding transitions to diamond on composite disks or rigid platens to control flatness. Polishing with colloidal silica or alumina chemo-mechanically removes the last damage layer for grain boundary and inclusion contrast after etching.
Water sensitivity (e.g., aluminum-lithium alloys) or corrosion-prone steels may require oil-based lubricants or short cycles to avoid staining. Automated head pressures improve repeatability across operators.
The final surface must be artifact-free: comet tails, pull-outs, and relief between phases bias automated inclusion ratings and hardness indent placement. Documenting grit sequence and force supports audit trails in accredited labs.
Vector VTR-1012-C Gaia continuous vibratory disc mill — integrated grinding cell with automatic feed and proportional sample divider for nonstop prep; meters 2–3 mm feed and continuously discharges fines below 0.5 mm.
Series: Gaia
Vector VTR-1012 Hercules vibratory disc mill — fully automatic ring-and-puck grinding for fragile materials and minerals; fast, repeatable fine powders for XRF, XRD, and laboratory QC.
Series: Hercules
Vector VTR-1011-XL Thor — heavy-duty continuous-feed jaw crusher with 300 × 450 mm jaws, up to 90 mm feed, 295 mm jaw width, ~1 mm minimum product, 150–300 kg/h throughput, 7.5 kW drive, Mohs ≤ 8, 7″ touchscreen HMI, jam detect & clear, optional automatic splitter.
Series: Thor
