Materials Testing

Metallography - versatile analysis method for metallic materials
 

Metallography is a key method for the characterization and quality assurance of metallic materials. It offers a wide range of applications, in particular for:

Microstructural analysis of ferrous and non-ferrous materials

Important information about the material properties can be obtained by microscopic examination of the microstructure. 

Typical analysis objectives are:

• Determination of the heat treatment condition
• Grain size analysis
• Determination of porosities
• Identification of phases and precipitates

Mechanical material testing

In addition to metallography, HQM Induserv offers a wide range of mechanical testing methods to specifically analyze the properties and load-bearing capacity of materials:
 

Tensile, compression and bending tests
 

• Tensile test: determination of yield strength, tensile strength and elongation at break
• Compression test: analysis of compressive strength behavior
• Bending test: investigation of bending behavior - e.g. for sheet metal and profiles

Notched bar impact test

• Impact bending test: Determination of notched impact strength and assessment of brittle fracture tendency
• Frequently used for quality control of weld seams

Hardness tests

• Carried out according to established methods: Vickers, Brinell and Rockwell
• Creation of hardness depth profiles to evaluate case hardening, nitriding and edge hardening

Bolting tests

• Testing the strength properties of bolts and nuts
• Determination of yield strength, tensile strength and torsional moment

Dynamic strength tests

• Investigation of material behavior under cyclic loads
• Wöhler test to determine fatigue strength

By combining metallographic and mechanical testing methods, materials can be comprehensively assessed. This forms the basis for reliable quality assurance and targeted optimization of materials and components.

Spectral analysis

Spectral analysis of metals and alloys is a key method for chemical material analysis. Using modern methods such as optical emission spectrometry (OES) and X-ray fluorescence analysis (XRF), it enables precise, fast and reliable determination of the elemental composition.

Optical emission spectrometry (OES)

• Precise analysis of alloying elements in light and heavy metals
• Simultaneous multi-element analysis of major and trace elements
• Highest accuracy thanks to modern CCD detector technology
• Fast analysis times of just a few minutes

Typical areas of application for spectral analysis:

Incoming and outgoing inspection in production

Monitoring of alloy compositions

Identification of impurities and interfering elements

Quality assurance and documentation

Modern metal spectrometers detect even the smallest concentrations of alloying elements and trace components - ideal for materials testing, metal analysis and quality control in industry and the laboratory.

Corrosion and resistance tests - Reliable statements on long-term resistance

In order to realistically evaluate the long-term properties of materials and products, HQM Induserv offers comprehensive test methods for corrosion and resistance testing in addition to material analysis. The aim is to evaluate the long-term properties of materials and products under realistic environmental conditions.

Corrosion tests

•  
• Salt spray tests to assess corrosion resistance
• Intercrystalline corrosion testing of stainless steel and weld seams
• Tests for resistance to aggressive media

Climate change tests

• Cyclical tests with changing temperatures and humidity values
• Simulation of condensation conditions for corrosion testing

Weathering simulation

• Artificial weathering with UV radiation and temperature changes
• Simulation of different climate zones such as Florida, Arizona, Kalahari
• Testing of hot light fastness, sunlight and weather resistance

Our tests are suitable for

• Metals (iron, non-ferrous, stainless steels) and coatings
• Plastics, composites and textiles
• Paints, coatings and surface treatments

Your added value with our corrosion and resistance tests

Realistic simulation of critical environmental conditions allows potential weak points to be identified at an early stage. This enables a well-founded service life forecast and targeted product optimization - regardless of the area of application.

Typical test conditions:

• Corrosive atmospheres caused by salt spray
• Changing climatic conditions with temperature and humidity cycles
• UV radiation and heat such as in desert regions
• Aggressive chemicals and media

Reliable results for demanding industries

Our tests provide reliable data on:

• Corrosion and chemical resistance
• UV and weathering resistance
• Service life under extreme conditions
  
  Whether in the automotive industry, aviation, offshore applications or consumer goods - our tests help you to increase the reliability of your products and meet even the highest quality standards.

Non-destructive material testing - testing quality without causing damage

Our non-destructive testing methods enable precise analysis of components without impairing their function or structure. We use modern methods to reliably detect material defects and ensure the highest quality standards - efficiently, safely and sustainably.

Magnetic and magnetic-inductive testing methods

We use our magnetic and magnetic-inductive testing methods to reliably detect cracks, inclusions and other material defects in ferromagnetic materials. These methods are particularly suitable for inspecting weld seams and cast parts.

Surface crack testing

Our surface crack tests are ideal for detecting cracks and defects on the surface of components. These methods, including dye penetrant testing and magnetic particle testing, enable fast and precise identification of surface defects.

Ultrasonic testing methods

Our ultrasonic inspection methods use high-frequency sound waves to detect material defects deep inside materials - even in thick or complex components.

Endoscopy

Visual inspection of the inside of components and systems using flexible or rigid endoscopes - including image documentation to ensure that no hidden defects are overlooked.

Your benefits at a glance

Safety and reliability: Detection and avoidance of potential failures in critical components.

Cost savings: Reduction of downtimes and avoidance of costly repairs.

Quality assurance: Ensuring compliance with standards and specifications.

Sustainability: Minimizing material waste through early fault detection.

Our non-destructive tests ensure the long-term reliability of your components. Detailed test reports provide a sound basis for quality-related decisions and contribute to the optimization of your production processes.

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with EDX - Precise surface and element analysis

Scanning electron microscopy enables the high-resolution examination of surfaces, coatings and fracture surfaces. Non-conductive materials such as plastics can also be reliably analyzed with the appropriate preparation.

In combination with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), precise chemical element analysis is also possible - ideal for identifying impurities, residues or coating compositions.

Our analysis services at a glance

SEM:

• High-resolution and detailed visualization of the finest surfaces, coatings and fracture surfaces
• Examination of conductive and non-conductive samples (e.g. plastics)
• Layer thickness measurement of thin coatings

EDX:

• Qualitative and quantitative determination of chemical elements
• Spatially resolved analysis of element distribution
• Detection of even the smallest concentrations (trace analysis)

Your benefits

• Non-destructive and fast analysis
• Simultaneous detection of all elements from carbon to americium
• Precise statements on material composition and surface chemistry
• Spatially resolved element distribution through coupling with scanning electron microscope (SEM)

Another major topic in this area is the testing of initial samples with regard to their conformity with OEM specifications.

Our engineers work with the client to develop specific test programs and evaluate the results.

If deviations occur, we can make recommendations for optimization.

Mr. Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Matthias Lemke
Division Manager Materials Testing Plastics, Chemistry, Cleanliness Analysis

Tel.: +49 (0) 371/53 04 81 34
Fax: +49 (0) 371/53 04 81 31
matthias.lemke@hqm-gruppe.de

Mrs. Dipl. Chemikerin Katharina Sesser
Deputy Division Manager Materials Testing Plastics, Chemistry, Cleanliness Analyses

Tel.: +49 (0) 371/53 04 81 34
Fax: +49 (0) 371/53 04 81 31
katharina.sesser@hqm-gruppe.de

Mr. Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Timo Mehner
Division Manager Materials Testing Metals

Tel.: +49 (0) 371/53 04 81 43
Fax: +49 (0) 371/53 04 81 31
timo.mehner@hqm-gruppe.de

Mrs. Dipl.-Ing. Annemarie Hartung
Deputy Division Manager Materials Testing Metals

Tel.: +49 (0) 371/53 04 81 48
Fax: +49 (0) 371/53 04 81 31
annemarie.hartung@hqm-gruppe.de

Mr. Torsten König
Site Manager Zwickau Materials Testing Metals

Tel.: +49 (0) 375/21 18 30 30
Fax: +49 (0) 375/21 18 30 41
Mobil: +49 (0) 151/11 44 72 42
torsten.koenig@hqm-gruppe.de