How long does it typically take to obtain metallographic analysis results?

The timeline for obtaining metallographic analysis results varies significantly, depending on the complexity, and ranges from 3 to 10 business days for most standard analyses. This duration accounts for the meticulous, multi-stage process required to generate reliable microstructural data.

Standard Analysis Timeline (3-5 Business Days)

For routine characterization of common materials like Stainless Steel or Aluminum Alloys, the process follows an efficient workflow:

• Day 1: Sectioning and Mounting

  • Precision cutting of the sample using abrasive or diamond saws

  • Mounting in phenolic or epoxy resin for handling

  • Required curing time for mounting medium

• Day 2: Grinding and Polishing

  • Progressive abrasive grinding from coarse to fine grits

  • Diamond suspension polishing to achieve mirror finish

  • Critical step to remove deformation from sectioning

• Day 3: Etching and Microscopy

  • Chemical etching to reveal microstructure (e.g., Kroll's reagent for Titanium Alloy)

  • Initial optical microscopy examination

  • Digital image capture and basic interpretation

Complex Analysis Timeline (5-10 Business Days)

Advanced materials and specialized requirements extend the timeline due to additional processing and examination steps:

Materials Requiring Extended Processing:

• Superalloy samples (e.g., Inconel 718) often need specialized etchants and examination

• Ceramic materials require precise polishing to prevent pull-out

• Heat-treated specimens need careful preparation to preserve microstructural features

Advanced Characterization Techniques:

• Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) adds 1-2 days for high-resolution imaging

• Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) requires additional 1 day for elemental analysis

• Grain size measurement per ASTM E112 adds ½ day for statistical analysis

• Image analysis for porosity/phase quantification adds 1 day

Factors Influencing Timeline Variations

Sample Complexity:

• Multiple sampling locations from the same component

• Large components requiring extensive sectioning

• Difficult-to-prepare materials like Copper alloys

Analysis Depth:

• Basic qualitative assessment (faster)

• Full quantitative analysis with statistical data (slower)

• Comparative analysis against multiple standards

Industry-Specific Requirements:

• Aerospace and Aviation components often require NADCAP-accredited procedures, adding rigor and time

• Medical and Healthcare implant materials necessitate exhaustive documentation

• Research and development projects may require iterative examination

Expedited and Routine Service Options

Expedited Service (2-3 days): Available for urgent failure analysis or production line decisions, though this may limit analysis scope.

Routine Quality Control (5 days): Standard turnaround for witness coupons from Powder Bed Fusion processes.

Comprehensive Analysis (7-10 days): Full characterization including SEM/EDS, hardness mapping, and quantitative data reporting.

Reporting and Delivery

The final report delivery includes:

• Digital micrographs with scale markers

• Interpretation against relevant ASTM/ISO standards

• Comparison to material specifications

• Professional conclusions and recommendations

For critical applications in Automotive or Energy and Power sectors, we recommend building additional witness coupons during production to maintain quality control without delaying component delivery.