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Stainless Steel / Copper Weld
Specimen Preparation (Class 5 Procedures)
Metallographic Class 5 sample preparation  

Stainless steel / copper welds are examined to determine the extent of diffusion of the stainless steel into the copper. This is undesirable because it significantly reduces the electrical conductivity of the copper. The key to polishing copper / stainless weld is to minimize smearing during cutting and initial grinding and to maintain the integrity of the inclusions in both the copper and stainless steel.

SECTIONING
MAXCUT Abrasive blade (Cat. No. MAX-C or MAX-I series)

MOUNTING
Compression Mounting with Phenolic, Epoxy or Diallyl Phthalate compression mounting resins

POLISHING
Abrasive/surface Lubricant Force/ sample Speed
(Head/base)
Time Individual
Force mode
Central Force
mode
P120 grit ALO paper*
P220 grit ALO paper*
Water 5-10 lbs 100/100 rpm Planar
1 min
  Metallographic central polishing force
P500 grit ALO paper
P1200 grit ALO paper
Water 5-10 lbs 100/100 rpm 1 min
1 min
Metallographic individual polishing force Metallographic central polishing force
1 um DIAMAT diamond
on ATLANTIS polishing pad
Water 5-10 lbs 100/100 rpm 2 min Metallographic individual polishing force Metallographic central polishing force
0.05 um Nanometer alumina
on NAPPAD polishing pad
  5-10 lbs 100/100 rpm 1 min Metallographic individual polishing force Metallographic central polishing force

*Required for central polishing force. Click here for more information on central vs. individual polishing force polishing.

Metallographic Specimen Preparation for copper-stainless steel weld
Diffusion of Stainless Steel (gray) into copper, 200X B.F.,
(as polished)
Metallograhic micrograph of a cracked stainless steel weld
Crack formed in Stainless Steel by welding operation, 200X B.F.
(as polished)

ETCHING

Common Etchants
PACE Technologies Recommended Etchants

PACE Technologies Etchant Database

CAUTION:Safety is very important when etching. Be sure to wear the appropriate protective clothing and observe all WARNINGS on chemical manufacuters SDS (Safety Data Sheets). Also review the COMMENTS and CONDITIONS Section for each etchant.


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