Sectioning Lab

The best metallographic images come from proper specimen preparation, starting with sample selection. After a material is decided, it is often necessary to reduce the specimen to a smaller sample that can fit into a mounting press. At ASM International world headquarters, Metallography education courses begin in the Sectioning Lab, composed of four abrasive and precision saws.

Careful decisions are made to minimize damage to both a material’s microstructure and the sectioning equipment.  Decisions such as what tool to use, fixture geometry, cutting speed, and manual techniques like pulsing are all considered. The automatic precision saws allow students to design their sectioning, controlling aspects such as distance and force, feed rate, and blade rpm. The saws are isolated to keep other metallography equipment clean from any debris and are equipped with blades made of silicon carbide, aluminum oxide, and diamond.

The Sectioning Lab is equipped with the following:

Take a tour of the Sectioning Lab at ASM International World Headquarters!