The company has improves its analytical capabilities by investing in the SEM technology to image and analyse coatings at the sub-micron level. This allows imaging of chemical elements in extremely fine detail and strengthens the company’s understanding of coating issues and behaviours.
The SEM uses a focused beam of electrons to interact with atoms and generate a variety of signals from the sample. This reveals information on the topography, composition, crystalline structure and orientation of materials comprising the sample. It is already being used to develop new Hardide coating applications, analyse customer parts and continually improve the production process.
“The SEM was a significant investment but one which is already paying off by providing us with a new level of information which we are using to deliver a better service to our customer base,” said Hardide Coatings technical director Dr Yuri Zhuk. “This technology also augments our ability to develop new applications and coating modifications more quickly and accurately.”
