Modular Micrographic System creates cross-sectional views.
Press Release Summary:
Combining saw-polish process and electrolyte staining technology, MicroGraph System can saw, polish, stain, and visually analyze crimps and other connections. System is available with 2 different saw and polish units, one for wire sizes up to 10 AWG and one for 2/0 AWG. After sample is cut and polished, surface is cleaned using ESU 6 Electrolyte Staining Unit, which does not use acidic chemicals. Entire sample holder can be positioned under zoom-optic of MZU 1.3 MacroZoom Unit for analysis.
Original Press Release:
Create Cross-Sectional Views Quicker, Cleaner and at a Lower Price
Creating micrographs, or cross-sectional views of crimped connections, with conventional methods and chemical etching is time-consuming and requires strict adherence to on-the-job safety regulations. Schleuniger's new MicroGraph System with a combined saw-polish process and innovative electrolyte staining technology creates high-quality cross-sectional views in a fraction of the time needed with conventional methods.
The MicroGraph System can be used to saw, polish, stain (clean) and visually analyze crimps and other connections such as welded and spliced connections. The modular system is comprised of individual components that can be combined according to customer requirements.
Each connection to be tested (i.e. test sample) is secured in a sample holder. The holder is easily inserted into the saw & polish unit (SPU) using a tool-less, quick-change mechanism. Depending on the wire size, there are 2 different models of the SPU available (SPU 6 up to 10 AWG (6 mm2), and SPU 60 up to 2/0 AWG (60 mm2). The main advantage of both devices is that they combine the sawing and polishing processes in one unit. Test samples can be prepared in one step without having to remove the sample holder; which saves time when compared to using separate units. Both devices provide an excellent cutting surface even before polishing. In many cases the polishing step is not required thereby saving even more time. Sawing can be optimized further using different sawing blades for different materials or small wires down to 32 AWG (0.03 mm2).
After a sample is cut and polished, the surface of the sample is cleaned using the staining pen of the ESU 6 Electrolyte Staining Unit. Contrary to common etching methods, the ESU 6 doesn't use aggressive, acidic chemicals to remove dirt or impurities. The electrolyte staining process is environmentally-friendly and much safer than traditional methods. The solution has a pH value of 7, the same as water, and the staining process requires a very low electrical current. Because the solution is not acidic, no toxic fumes are created during the process so a cut & polished surface can quickly be cleaned directly under the microscope. Results are immediately visible and time-consuming re-work or waiting times are completely eliminated.
The entire sample holder can be quickly positioned under the zoom-optic of the MZU 1.3 MacroZoom Unit for analysis. A 1.3 megapixel, USB 2.0 camera along with pixel-fox® analysis and measuring software are included and can be installed on a standard PC.
The optics and software can be quickly and easily calibrated according to international standards with an optional object micrometer. The software features numerous fixed zoom positions making the creation of high-precision cross-sectional pictures very easy and repeatable.
The MicroGraph System provides extremely short processing times, high user-friendliness and comes at a substantially lower price than common laboratories. Systems can be set up on a table at a fixed location or using a mobile cart to bring the test equipment to the samples. In daily use it increases efficiency and lowers costs typically associated with the creation of cross-sectional views - making an important contribution to further increase productivity.
More information can be found at www.schleuniger-na.com. Should you have any questions, please e-mail sales@schleuniger.com or call (603) 668-8117.
Schleuniger is one of the globally leading companies for wire processing solutions and is specialized in high-precision stripping & crimping technology. Manufactured in Switzerland and Germany, Schleuniger machines and equipment are used in various industries and markets all over the world. The Schleuniger Group has sales & service companies in Germany, USA, Canada, Mexico, Slovakia, Japan and China and a world-wide sales & service network with long-term partners in more than 40 countries. The Schleuniger Group represents the division "Wire Processing" of the METALL ZUG GROUP. The holding company METALL ZUG AG is listed at the Swiss stock exchange (SIX Local Caps, Zurich, Switzerland).
