Troubleshooting Quick Reference

One-page guide to identifying and solving common preparation problems in metallographic sample preparation.

Download PDF Guide

Get a printable quick reference guide with common problems and their solutions organized by category.

Preview

Scratches

Problem: Residual scratches after advancing grit

Solution: Diagnose contamination first — mount fresh paper and rinse the platen and sample at every transition. Only after the abrasive surface, platen, and sample are confirmed clean is more time or pressure a valid lever

Problem: Deep scratches remain

Solution: Rule out contaminated or loaded paper first, then return to a coarser grit and remove the damage completely before proceeding

Relief

Problem: Relief around inclusions

Solution: Use a harder cloth, shorten polishing time, and reduce pressure — soft napped cloths make relief worse

Contamination

Problem: Embedded abrasive particles

Solution: Use fixed-abrasive papers and lighter force; on soft metals switch SiC to alumina — SiC embeds more readily

Quick Tips

  • Always monitor the sample surface during preparation
  • Clean thoroughly between each step
  • When scratches persist, suspect contamination before adding time or pressure
  • Use fresh abrasives and clean cloths

Need More Help?

Check out our comprehensive guides for detailed troubleshooting information.

Browse Guides →