Investigating microstructure, layer thickness & grain size

Metallography

Investigating microstructure, layer thickness & grain size

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  • Microstructure & grain size analysis
  • Coating thickness measurement
  • Digital microscopy & reports
  • Specimen preparation in the laboratory
  • DAkkS accredited

Destructive Material Testing

Metallography – Method & Application

Graphite forms in cast iron

Graphite forms in cast iron

Metallography is a destructive method for analyzing microstructure, coating thickness and grain size. For this, specimens are taken, ground, polished and etched – these preparation steps are called specimen preparation.

The evaluation is then carried out under the microscope. We use digital systems for recording and evaluation, including standardized documentation in test reports.

Our Services
  • Microstructure analysis
  • Grain size determination
  • Coating thickness measurement
  • Digital microscopy
  • Digital test reports
  • In-house specimen preparation
Typical Applications
  • Assessment of castings and forgings
  • Examination of heat-treated zones
  • Microstructure characterization (graphite type, grain size distribution)
  • Coating thickness measurement of coatings

Metallography provides essential insights into the strength, corrosion resistance and processing quality of a material.

Related Methods

Verfahren & Methoden 

Accredited according to DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Zeros GmbH?

Zeros GmbH is an independent testing laboratory for destructive and non-destructive materials testing. We support companies from incoming inspection to series release – including digital test reports and full traceability.

We operate under accreditation to DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025 (quality management for laboratories). See our current accreditation information here.

Which standards is Zeros GmbH accredited to?

We are accredited by DAkkS to DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025. This standard ensures that test methods, equipment control, personnel qualification and reporting meet the highest requirements.

An overview of services and scopes is available on our homepage.

What services does Zeros GmbH offer?

Our portfolio covers NDT (UT, RT, MT, PT, VT), mechanical testing (tensile, hardness, Charpy), metallography (microstructure, grain size, coating thickness) and chemical analysis (e.g. OES, XRF). We also provide specimen preparation, documentation and consulting.

How can I use Zeros GmbH's services?

Please contact us by email or use the contact option on the website. Share material, standard/specification and quantity – we'll get back to you promptly with a solution.

How Metallography Works

Preparation of a metallographic specimen

Specimen preparation

Technical Background and Procedure

The specimens are taken from the component and prepared by grinding, polishing and etching. Only through these steps does the microstructure become visible.

Under the microscope, we analyze microstructure types, grain sizes and coating thicknesses. With digital image analysis, distributions, sizes and types can be determined precisely – e.g. graphite types in cast iron.

The results are documented in a digital test report and provided to you for evaluation.