Struers Flexible Holder Universal Sample Mounting Fixture
| Brand | Struers |
|---|---|
| Origin | Denmark |
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | Flexible Holder |
| Pricing | Upon Request |
Overview
The Struers Flexible Holder Universal Sample Mounting Fixture is an engineered solution designed to eliminate manual intervention and geometric constraints in metallographic sample preparation workflows. Unlike conventional mechanical clamping systems that rely on fixed jaws, threaded fixtures, or vacuum-based mounting—each requiring precise alignment, surface conditioning, or time-consuming setup—the Flexible Holder operates on a passive, spring-loaded pin array principle. This architecture enables conformal mechanical engagement with irregularly shaped specimens—including weld joints, castings with undercuts, additively manufactured parts, and fractured surfaces—without the need for embedding, adhesive bonding, or custom jig fabrication. It is specifically optimized for integration into semi-automated grinding and polishing platforms where reproducibility, operator safety, and throughput consistency are governed by standardized ISO 13054, ASTM E3, and EN 10780 protocols.
Key Features
- Passive spring-pin array system providing adaptive contact pressure across variable specimen topographies without user adjustment
- Direct compatibility with Struers Tegramin-25 and Tegramin-30 grinding/polishing units and LaboForce-100 specimen carriers
- Firmware-upgradable operation—no hardware modification required; software update enables full functional activation
- Zero-contact-time mounting: specimens placed directly onto the preparation surface, followed by automatic engagement upon lowering of the carrier plate
- Enables uninterrupted process interruption: pause at any stage (e.g., intermediate inspection, grit change) while maintaining positional stability
- Corrosion-resistant stainless steel construction compliant with laboratory-grade cleaning agents and solvent exposure per IEC 61000-6-3 EMC standards
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Flexible Holder accommodates specimens ranging from 10 mm to 50 mm in maximum dimension, with thicknesses between 1 mm and 25 mm. It maintains secure positioning for non-planar geometries including convex curvature (R ≥ 8 mm), angular weld cross-sections (bevel angles up to 45°), and multi-level stepped surfaces. No specimen conditioning—such as chamfering, flattening, or conductive coating—is required prior to mounting. The fixture meets mechanical safety requirements outlined in EN 61000-6-2 and supports GLP-compliant documentation when used with Struers’ DuraScan or OpTIMA software suites, which provide audit-trail-enabled process logging aligned with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 data integrity guidelines.
Software & Data Management
Integration with Struers’ proprietary preparation software (v5.2 or later) enables synchronized parameter mapping: rotational speed, downforce profile, dwell time, and abrasive sequence are automatically adjusted based on specimen count and nominal geometry class selected during setup. Process logs include timestamped metadata for each mounted specimen—carrier ID, operator login, start/stop events, and force feedback diagnostics—exportable in CSV or XML format for LIMS ingestion. All firmware updates are delivered via encrypted Struers Software Portal with SHA-256 verification and rollback capability.
Applications
- Weld metallurgy labs performing cross-sectional analysis of pipe girth welds, dissimilar metal joints, and laser beam welds
- R&D facilities preparing AM (additive manufacturing) samples with overhangs, lattice structures, or internal porosity features
- Failure analysis centers handling fractured components with uneven fracture surfaces or thermal distortion zones
- Quality control laboratories conducting routine microstructure evaluation of investment-cast turbine blades and compressor housings
- Educational institutions teaching metallographic principles without dependence on epoxy-mounting infrastructure
FAQ
Is the Flexible Holder compatible with third-party grinding/polishing systems?
No—it is mechanically and electronically calibrated exclusively for Struers Tegramin and LaboForce platforms. Interfacing with non-Struers equipment voids warranty and compromises force calibration integrity.
Can it be used for non-metallic specimens such as ceramics or composites?
Yes, provided specimen hardness does not exceed 2200 HV and surface roughness remains below Ra 12.5 µm prior to mounting.
Does the fixture require recalibration after routine cleaning?
No—spring-pin preload is factory-set and thermally stabilized; no field recalibration is specified in the maintenance schedule (per Struers Service Manual SM-TG-FH-2023).
What is the expected service life under continuous lab use?
Rated for ≥ 50,000 mounting cycles with scheduled inspection every 10,000 cycles per ISO 9001 preventive maintenance protocol.
