Mechanical Cross Section is a critical failure analysis technique used to examine the internal structure of a sample orthogonal to its surface. This method involves precise cutting or grinding to expose a cross-sectional view of the material, providing valuable insights into its composition and integrity.
Key Methods:
- Diamond Wheel Cutting: Utilizes a diamond-coated wheel to achieve precise and clean cuts, ideal for hard materials.
- Abrasive Paper Grinding: Involves grinding the sample with abrasive paper to gradually expose the cross-section, suitable for a variety of materials.
Applications:
- Failure Analysis: Identifies defects, cracks, and other anomalies within the sample, aiding in the diagnosis of failure mechanisms.
- Quality Control: Ensures the structural integrity and consistency of materials, crucial for manufacturing and production processes.
- Material Characterization: Provides detailed information about the internal structure, grain boundaries, and phase distribution of the sample.
After Mechanical Cross Sectioning, the sample can undergo various advanced analytical techniques such as Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-Ray (EDS) analysis. These techniques further enhance the understanding of the material’s properties and behavior, making Mechanical Cross Section an indispensable tool in research and industrial applications.