A TECHNICAL REPORT ON

METALLURGY
BY
OLADIPO STEPHEN
OLUWADAMILARE

MATRIC NO: 19/30GN044

GROUP: 3

COURSE CODE: MME 381

DEPARTMENT: MATERIAL AND METALLURGICAL

ENGINEERING

INSTRUCTOR: MR R.K ABDULRAZAQ

DATE OF EXPERIMENT: 06/02/2023

DATE OF SUBMISSION: 13/02/2023

 TITLE
MICRO-STRUCTURAL EXAMINATION OF METALS
 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

1. To study and observe the micro-structure of pure metals

 INTRODUCTION THEORY
The theory of microstructural examination of metals is based on the
observation and analysis of the microstructure of metals at a
microscopic level. Microstructure refers to the arrangement and
distribution of various phases, grains, and defects within a metal, and
it plays a crucial role in determining the mechanical and physical
properties of the metal.
The examination of microstructure typically involves the use of optical
or electron microscopy, in which the sample is magnified to reveal
the details of its microstructure. The image obtained can then be
analyzed to identify the type, size, and distribution of the various
phases, grains, and defects present in the sample.
The information obtained from the microstructural examination is
useful in a variety of applications, including quality control, material
selection and optimization, and failure analysis. For example, by
analyzing the microstructure of a metal, it is possible to identify the
presence of unwanted phases or defects, such as inclusions, voids,
or cracks, which can impact the performance of the metal. On the
other hand, by understanding the relationship between
microstructure and properties, it is possible to design and optimize
materials to meet specific performance requirements.
Overall, the theory of microstructural examination of metals provides
a valuable tool for understanding the underlying mechanisms that
control the behavior and properties of metals and alloys, and it has
numerous applications in a wide range of industries, including
aerospace, automotive, energy, and construction.
 EQUIPMENT/APPARATUS
1. Grinding Machine
2. Grit Paper (380mm,400mm,600mm,800mm)
3. Specimen
 EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE
• A thin cross-sectional sample referred to as specimen is cut
from the workpiece for examination.
• The specimen is therefore placed in an ultrasonic cleaner bath
so as to enable the resin to adhere properly using alcohol and
ultrasonic waves to remove fat and loose particles trapped on
the surface of the specimen.
• The specimen is placed under the dryer to dry out all the
moisture content on it.
• The clean specimen is then placed into a plastic mould; a thin
layer of grease is poured into plastic mould before the liquid
resin for easy release of the specimen from the plastic mould.
• The plastic mould that contains the specimen is transferred into
the light curring unit for polymerization under intense blue light
for about 30 mins.
• The specimen is now being grinded to even out the surface of
the specimen using a water lubricating disk and coarse grit
paper (80-180mm).
• The previous step is then repeated again but with finer grit
paper (380-800mm) to make the surface of the specimen even
smoother.
• The specimen is now taken for ultrasonic cleansing to prevent
unwanted particles from scratching the surface of the
specimen.
• The specimen is now ready for polishing with the use of
polishing clothe and lubricant.
• After polishing, the specimen is to be cleaned with soft cotton
wool under running water and rinses with alcohol (ethanol).
• The mounted sample is now viewed under the light microscope
to get the general idea of the microstructure and to identify any
gross features such as cracks, voids and inclusions.
• For further observation the specimen is now taken for etching
using etchant and then rinses thoroughly with water.
 OBSERVATIONS
• The smoothness of the surface of the specimen increases with
the increase of the scale of the grit paper
• The gross features such as cracks, voids and inclusions are not
visible until the etching is carried out on the surface of the
specimen.
• The white regions of the microstructure is termed FERRITE
while the dark regions is termed PEARLITE.
 PRECAUTIONS
• The specimen and equipments were handled carefully to avoid
damage/contamination.
• Hands must be washed gently at intervals to prevent unwanted
materials to interfere with the specimen.
• Water was added during the grinding process to prevent heat.
• Eating and drinking in the laboratory is prohibited
 CONCLUSION
The micro-structural examination of metals plays a critical role in
understanding the properties and behavior of metal materials. The
microstructure of a metal is the arrangement and distribution of its
constituent grains or crystals, as well as any included impurities,
defects, and other micro-structural features. By studying the
microstructure, engineers and scientists can determine the strength,
ductility, toughness, and other important mechanical properties of a
metal. They can also assess the quality of the metal, identify any
potential problems that may arise during processing or service, and
develop methods to improve the metal's properties.
In conclusion, the micro-structural examination of metals is an
essential tool for characterizing and optimizing metal materials, and
plays a critical role in numerous fields, including materials science,
engineering, and manufacturing.