Metallographic mounting press is an equipment that provides a safe and convenient way of handling metallographic specimens. It protects fragile materials and thin coatings and helps in preservation of extreme edges. This process also facilitates the testing of hardness of materials. This process can be used for many different applications.
Metallographic mounting presses are available in different models. These range from semi-automatic to fully-automatic. These machines are equipped with smart hydraulic systems and offer a wide range of features. Moreover, they allow the user to control their involvement in the process. Some models also have memory settings for common sample preparation parameters.
Thermosets can be phenolic resins with mineral fillers. These resins can also be melamine resins. Thermoplastics are formed when the polymeric material is heated. They are then cooled sequentially. These resins form transparent solids after curing. Cooling times are dependent on the mold diameter.
Thermosetting compounds can form a gap between the specimen and the mounting material. This gap can cause breakouts or edge rounding and may also lead to crack formation. This gap may also accumulate grinding media. The best resin adhesion is achieved when the surface is free of contaminants. The mounting material should also be impact resistant and hard.
The most common type of thermoplastic mounting compounds include diallyl phthalate (DOP), methyl methacrylate (MMA) and epoxy. The fastest curing time can exceed the curing time of acrylic systems. These resins are very easy to use. They are also comparatively cheaper.
Thermoplastics may be cured between 150 and 180 deg C. They have a greater processing window, so they are easier to handle. However, they gain hardness during cooling. Thermoplastics are also able to form transparent solids after curing.
Cold mounting is similar to hot mounting. However, there are differences in application ranges. Cold mounting is more suitable for sensitive samples.