Metallography: Sample Preparation

Steps

1. Cutting: Abrasive or diamond saw, avoid thermal damage
2. Mounting: Hot compression (Bakelite) or cold cast (epoxy)
3. Grinding: 120-1200 grit SiC paper, water lubricated
4. Polishing: 9, 3, 1 micron diamond paste/cloth
5. Etching: Nital (steel), Kroll (Ti), Keller (Al) - 5-30 sec