--- type: "WebPage" title: "Metallographic analysis in the laboratory" description: "Would you like to carry out a metallographic analysis on your samples? In the laboratory, the technique of determining the structure of a metal alloy by observing it with an optical microscope (OM) after a specific preparation is called metallography...." resource: "https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/examination-metallographic-section-laboratory/" tags: ["EN", "pll_6231f7a4cad63", "Arnaud JOUDRAIN Meta"] timestamp: "2026-04-20T14:09:40Z" published: "2022-05-04T09:36:18Z" language: "en" author: "Théa Quilliou" --- # Metallographic analysis in the laboratory ## Would you like to carry out a metallographic analysis on your samples? In the laboratory, the technique of determining the structure of a metal alloy by observing it with an optical microscope (OM) after a specific preparation is called **metallography**. It is an examination by metallographic section. In the [analysis of metal alloys](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/metal-failure-analysis.md), knowledge of the properties of the metallic material requires metallographic study and analysis. ### What is a metallographic analysis? Metallographic analysis, also known as metallographic examination, is a material characterization technique based on their microstructure. It is often used in the metallurgical industry to evaluate the quality, properties, and structure of metals and alloys. The data collected during metallographic analysis includes information on: - chemical composition, - crystalline structure, - phase and inclusion distribution, - as well as material quality. Interpreting this data can provide valuable insights into the mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties of metallic materials, as well as their resistance to stress, corrosion, and other [metallurgical failures](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/metal-failure-analysis.md).   ## How does the FILAB laboratory support you in your metallographic cutting examination needs? With significant experience in carrying out metallographic section examinations and in the implementation of microscopy methods (optical and scanning electrons), the FILAB laboratory supports you in the context of your metallographic analysis and characterization needs: ### The metallographic expertise of the FILAB laboratory A **metallographic expertise** laboratory is a specialized environment where samples of metallic materials are analyzed in detail to study their structure, composition, and mechanical properties. The FILAB laboratory has a dedicated analytical suite. Metallographic expertise is used in many industries, including [aerospace](https://filab.fr/en/sectors-of-activity/laboratory-analysis-aeronautics-aerospace.md), [automotive](https://filab.fr/en/sectors-of-activity/laboratory-analysis-automobile.md), [metallurgy](https://filab.fr/en/sectors-of-activity/laboratory-metallurgy-steelmaking-analysis.md), electronics, and more. In short, this expertise is a technique used to ensure the **reliability of metallic materials** in various industrial applications. [Failure analysis](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-expertise-services/laboratory-analysis-failures.md) Strength and castability testing Characterization of metallic materials    [Coating thickness measurements ](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/laboratory-surface-characterization/surface-coating-thickness-measurement.md) Structural characterization Metallographic analysis according to standard NF EN ISO 945:2017 (classification of graphite in cast iron by comparative visual analysis) Chemical testing and [analysis of materials](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/laboratory-analysis-composite-material/) [Surface treatment testing](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/laboratory-surface-characterization/laboratory-analysis-expertise-surface-treatment.md) and analysis (chemical baths, galvanization, metallic coatings…) Ageing studies on materials [Electrochemical tests](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-expertise-services/electrochemical-characterization.md) Determination of grain size, microstructure ### Our technical means to determine the structure of your metal alloy ### SEM-EDX [](https://filab.fr/nos-moyens-techniques/laboratoire-d-analyses-par-microscopie-electronique-a-balayage-meb-edx.md) ### CHNSO Elemental Analyzers [](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/chons-laboratory-analysis.md) ### OES [](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/laboratory-analysis-oes-alloys.md) ### ICP-AES [](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/laboratory-analysis-icp-icp-ms-icp-aes/icp-aes-analysis-laboratory.md) The metallographic examination or study performed on the prepared surface by Optical Microscopy allows for the determination of the structure, grain size, and the nature and content of inclusions, as well as the identification of any heat treatment or surface treatment. If necessary, the prepared surface can also be studied by [scanning electron microscopy coupled with a microprobe (SEM-EDX)](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/laboratory-analysis-sem-scanning-electron-microscopy.md) to identify the chemical nature of unknown precipitates and inclusions or to specifically characterize the layering of a surface treatment (e.g., in the case of electroplating coatings). ## Our metallurgical expertise services [Micrographic Analysis](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/laboratory-micrographic-examination.md) [Electrochemical tests](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-expertise-services/electrochemical-characterization.md) [Crystallographic Analysis](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/metallurgical-analysis-laboratory/laboratory-analysis-crystallography.md) ### Metallography in the metallurgy, automotive and foundry sectors Through metallography, industries can optimize the composition of materials to improve their strength, durability, and ability to withstand extreme environmental conditions. By measuring and quantifying these parameters, industries can optimize their materials in a variety of industries, from [automotive parts](https://filab.fr/en/sectors-of-activity/laboratory-analysis-automobile/laboratory-for-the-study-of-failures-in-the-automotive-industry.md) production to [electronics manufacturing](https://filab.fr/en/sectors-of-activity/microelectronics-analysis-laboratory.md). In short, metallographic analysis is an essential step in the quality control and development process for new materials. ## Why choose FILAB for metallography testing? - ISO 17025-accredited testing ensures accuracy, traceability, and trust. - Tailored sample preparation that preserves microstructural integrity through advanced techniques. - Microscopy capabilities—from optical to SEM-level resolution—for in-depth analysis of features like grains, inclusions, and heat-affected zones. - Cross-industry expertise in aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, and energy sectors. - Comprehensive support from sample intake to data interpretation. ## Main steps of a metallographic examination Sample preparation: this step involves cutting material samples, embedding them in resins or supports, and polishing them to obtain a flat, smooth surface. Proper preparation is essential for microscopic examination. Microscopic observation: using metallographic microscopes allows for high-magnification observation of the sample’s microstructure. This microstructure can reveal information about grain size, phase distribution, and the presence of defects such as cracks, pores, or inclusions. Chemical analysis: techniques such as [spectrometry](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/laboratory-analysis-mass-spectrometry.md) can be used to determine the chemical composition of the phases present in the material, which is crucial for understanding its properties. Mechanical characterization: metallographic examination may also include [mechanical testing](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-expertise-services/mechanical-laboratory-test.md) of the samples, such as hardness, tensile, or creep tests, to evaluate the material’s mechanical properties. ### Our accreditations ![](https://filab.fr/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/ESSAI-Logo-COFRAC.jpg) The FILAB laboratory is accredited by COFRAC (French Accreditation Committee) – Laboratories section – for its departments in Chemistry, Metallurgy, Organic Chemistry, Chemical Expertise, Materials Expertise, and Environment in the following fields:  ✔️ Physicochemical analysis of metallic materials ✔️ Physicochemical analysis of cosmetic and pharmaceutical products ✔️ Physicochemical analysis of medical devices, medical equipment, and chemical and biological products Scope available No. 1-1793 This [Nadcap accreditation](https://filab.fr/en/about-us/accreditations-en/materials-testing-nadcap-laboratory.md) notably covers: ✔️ Chemical analysis (ICP-OES) of critical metallic alloys (Al, Fe, Ni, Ti) ✔️ Metallography An international recognition that confirms our commitment to quality and reliability for the most demanding applications, particularly in the aerospace sector. ![](https://filab.fr/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/PNG-bleu-e1775737225243-1024x446.png) [Explore our accreditations](https://filab.fr/en/about-us/accreditations-en.md) ## FAQ What is metallography testing?  Metallography testing involves preparing and analyzing metal samples under the microscope to study microstructural features like grains, phases, and inclusions. It offers essential insights into how materials will perform in real-world applications. Why is metallography testing important? Because microstructural characteristics directly affect mechanical and chemical properties—such as strength, corrosion resistance, and fatigue life—understanding them is vital for quality control, material certification, and failure analysis. What techniques are used in metallography testing? Typical procedures include cutting, mounting, polishing, etching, followed by optical or electron microscopy (SEM/TEM) to capture high-detail visuals of microstructure. Can you identify defects through metallography testing? Absolutely. We can detect material defects such as inclusions, porosity, grain irregularities, and phase transformations—critical information for ensuring component reliability. Which industries benefit from metallography testing services? We serve aerospace, automotive, energy, precision manufacturing, and R&D sectors—any field where understanding microstructure is key to product performance and compliance. Why perform a metallographic analysis? Metallographic analysis reveals the internal structure of metals — a key factor in their mechanical and physical properties. By examining a material under optical microscopy, we can identify the different metallurgical phases, their shape, distribution, and proportion. This analysis is essential to: - **Verify material quality and conformity**   - **Evaluate the effects of heat or forming processes**   - **Understand the root cause of failures or defects**   In short, metallography provides a clear picture of the material’s condition, ensuring reliability and performance in service. What are the main steps of a metallographic examination? A metallographic examination typically involves sample cutting, mounting, grinding, polishing, etching, and microscopic observation. Each step is critical to ensure a smooth surface and accurate interpretation of the microstructure. How are results from a metallographic examination interpreted? The interpretation of metallographic examination results focuses on grain size, phase distribution, inclusion content, and surface treatment effects. These findings help determine whether a metal meets the desired specifications for strength, durability, and corrosion resistance.