Field Metallographic Replication (FMR) to Analyze Microstructure In-Situ

One of the most economical techniques for metallurgical examination required for run-repair-or-replace decisions on big components or systems is field metallographic replication (FMR). To analyze damage that can only be seen on a microscopic level, such as high-temperature hydrogen attack or HTHA, stress corrosion cracking, creep damage, and void formation, FMR analysis enables you to transport the metallography laboratory to your field sites. We take the time and effort to create the highly high-quality imaging required for reliable FMR analysis, and our field metallographic replication technicians are among the best in the industry. The outcomes ascertain the type and severity of faults, cracks, defects, and other issues generally invisible to conventional procedures.

What is Field Metallography?

FMR, or field metallographic replication testing, is a popular non-destructive method that is widely used. The ASTM E1351 specification for “Production and Assessment of Field Metallographic Replicas” outlines our FMR procedures. When it is difficult or impossible to remove samples for laboratory examination, the FMR process is the best option for in-situ investigation of the microstructure and other metallurgical properties of steels and other metals. For field metallographic replication, our FMR inspection team of specialists and scientists can visit your location frequently on the same day in the United States.

Risk-based integrity analysis is sometimes utilized to assess the integrity of the materials and define procedures for ongoing safe operation and maintenance. Similar techniques are used for FMR as for conventional laboratory metallography, with the exception that FMR is frequently carried out in small places and requires qualified specialists to obtain high-quality images.

• Infinita Lab carried out field metallographic replication and Brinnell hardness tests to assess the impact of fire damage on a pipeline.
• To determine how fire damage to this pipeline might affect it, Brinell hardness testing and field metallographic replication were carried out.

How is Field Metallography Carried Out?

The FMR technique is the same as regular metallography in that the surface is prepared by grinding and then polished with progressively finer grits of abrasive material until a diamond or silica cloth polish is employed to achieve a mirror-like finish with no discernible scratches. In order to evaluate the metal surface, microstructure, flaws, and other aspects, FMR measurements are carried out using portable high-magnification microscopes, and pictures are captured with a connected digital camera.

A sample removal tool may occasionally be used to carefully remove samples for laboratory testing without altering the qualities assessed in the lab. If so, optical and/or electron microscopy is used to learn more about the material’s qualities and potential problems (for example, microstructure changes, aging, corrosion, precipitate formation, and other defects).

Why Utilize an FMR Analysis?

When samples cannot be removed, quick testing is required, or shut-downs are taking place, the ability to do field metallography on-site can be very beneficial. Because the features seen in field metallography replication are the same as those seen in lab metallography, it can be used to find a wide range of changes or flaws that can damage parts in essential applications.

Applications of FMR

• Process piping, high-pressure piping, fire damage evaluation, pressure vessels, potential HTHA damage, and other locations where sample removal is challenging

• FMR is sometimes used with other nondestructive tests (such as ultrasound, eddy current, dye penetrant, and acoustic emission) to corroborate measurements and glean further information about flaws or defects that have been noticed. We look forward to assisting you with your FMR needs and answering any questions!

Video 1: IIA Field Services, Metallographic Replications