Applied Mechanics Lab – MEC 424/AHA/MCM Rev.

01-2014

UNIVERSITI TEKNOLOGI MARA

FAKULTI KEJURUTERAAN MEKANIKAL
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Program : Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) Mechanical (EM220/EM221)

Course : Applied Mechanics Lab
Code : MEC 424
Lab : Material Science
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Lab Sheet No : 1

Title : Introduction To Sample Preparation And Optical Microscope

For Metallographic Observation

1.0 Introduction

In the study of metallic materials it is often to analyze the phases exist and grain size in the structure.
Details of the structure of metals are not readily visible through naked eyes, but grain structures in
metals may be seen with the aid of microscope. Metal characteristics such as grain sizes, effect of heat
treatment, and carbon content of steels may be determined by studying the micrograph. For this
purpose, the metal used in the metallurgical examination must be prepared and polished carefully
before a good microscopic image can be seen. It is important to ensure that the surface is totally flat and
smooth before microstructure observation. Any irregularity will appear as a dark image and may create
confusion to the observer who attempts to analyze a structure. In order to obtain this smooth flat
surface, several preparatory steps are required: Cutting, Molding, Grinding, Polishing and Etching

1.2 Optical Microscope

When a mirror-like metal surface has been obtained, the structure can be observed with the aid of
optical microscope. Schematic diagram of an optical microscope is shown in the right figure. The
optical microscope magnifies an image by sending a beam of light through the object as seen in the
schematic diagram. The condenser lens focuses the light on the sample and the objective lenses (10X,
40X, . . . , 2000X) magnifies the beam, which contains the image, to the projector lens so the image can
be viewed by the observer.

2.0 Objectives

Upon completion of this experiment, students should be able to;

1. Understand the procedure metallographic sample preparation.

2. Understand basic function of optical microscope and it’s operation
3. Perform analysis from the microstructure’s observation
4. Understand theoretical background of sample preparation and metallographic specimens

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 Applied Mechanics Lab – MEC 424/AHA/MCM Rev. 01-2014

3.0 Apparatus

Cutter, Mounting Machine, Grinder, Polisher, Dryer and Optical Microscope.

4.0 Instruction

1. Students are required to follow standard steps and demonstrated the metallographic samples
preparation.
2. Examples of metallographic specimens will be given to be observed by using microscope by
using different magnifying beam.
3. Students are required to analyst the experimental result with theoretical background of
metallographic specimens.

5.0 Results and Discussion

Discuss your findings. Wherever necessary please use diagrams, charts and table to emphasize on your
findings.

6.0 Conclusion

Conclude your findings

7.0 References

List all references that you have made during the course of your findings.