Services

Macroscopic Examination of Metals

Microscopic examination of metals

Macroscopic examination of metals evaluates the quality and consistency of a test sample using only low or no magnification. It can be used to assess quality by evaluating a sample’s macrostructural features, which may include grain flow, porosity, and cracks.

LTI’s Macroscopic Examination Capabilities

The metallurgical engineering team at Laboratory Testing Inc. (LTI), near Philadelphia, offers the following macroscopic examination services:

  • Macro etching
  • Grain flow
  • Weld qualification
  • Surface condition
  • Surface finish
  • Digital imaging
  • Fractography
  • Coatings
Why This Method?

Macroscopic examination of specimens exposed to passivation, salt spray, case depth, and other testing are frequently performed. For example, a weld cross-section examination can reveal internal discontinuities, weld profile, extent of penetration, and more. The macrostructural properties of a weldment can be crucial in weld procedures or welder qualifications.

How Does LTI Conduct This Testing Method?

Before macroscopic examination of metals begins, LTI prepares the test sample to specification. Often etching is required after the sample has been cut, ground, and polished. The samples can be ingots, castings, plates, bars, sheets, or finished products. The macroscopic examination may be performed on the transverse or longitudinal cross-section of the test sample. The sample is viewed with the unaided eye or at low magnification, usually no greater than 10 times.

Specifications
  • ASME Sect. IX
  • ASTM E340
  • ASTM E381
  • MIL Specifications
The LTI Advantage

LTI’s cutting-edge facilities and expert metallurgists can handle all your material testing needs. During macroscopic examination of metals, LTI documents the findings with digital imaging to provide you with a visual record or a digital file that can be emailed.

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