DHARMA Weld Sample Polishing

Steps for polishing a weld sample for etching

Materials Needed:
• Sectioned and Mounted Weld Sample
• Leco Polishing Turntables
• Leco Grit Pads (180, 240, 320, 600)
• Safety Glasses
• Water
• Compressed Air
• Cotton Ball
• Masking Tape

Before Polishing:
1. Be sure to wear safety glasses at all times when Polishing

2. Be familiar with the equipment (Leco Turntable Figure 1)

3. Be aware of all emergency stops

4. Be sure to have a properly sectioned and mounted weld sample (Figure 2)

Figure 2
FIGURE 1
E-Stop
Polishing Steps:
1. Place a 180 (Figure 3) grit Leco polishing pad on Leco Spectrum System 1000 turntable.

2. Ensure the pad is safely secured on the turntable.

3. Start the turntables at a speed of 300, this is a safe speed for polishing samples.

4. Turn on water and aim onto the grit pad, this will ensure the sample does not get too hot and
potentially alter the sample.

5. Using one hand, secure the sample in your fingers and with a firm grip, gently hold the
sample to the grit pad.

6. With your other hand place two fingers on the center of the sample and apply light pressure.

7. For five minutes, polish the sample in this fashion until a smooth and even surface is
obtained. If there are issues obtaining this surface finish, replace the pad and rotate the
sample 90 degrees until surface finish is obtained.

8. Once desired finish is obtained, repeat steps 3-9 with 240 grit Leco pad (Figure 4) until a
smoother and even surface finish is obtained

9. Once surface finish is obtained, repeat steps 3-9 with 320 grit Leco pad (Figure 5) until
smoother finish is obtained with minor scratches.

10. Once surface finish is obtained repeat steps 3-9 with 600 grit Leco pad (Figure 6) until
surface is very smooth, with no scratches.
Figure 4: 240 grit

Figure 3: 180 grit

 Figure 5: 320 grit
Figure 6: 600 grit

11. You have now completed the steps to polish a sample, always place a cotton ball on the face
of the sample and secure with masking tape. This will ensure the sample does not get
scratched or dirty while waiting to be etched. (Figure 7)

Figure 7