LEI-TECH LK-SD180 Manual Metallographic Sample Cutting Machine

Overview

The LEI-TECH LK-SD180 Manual Metallographic Sample Cutting Machine is a precision-engineered laboratory instrument designed for the controlled sectioning of metallic and non-metallic specimens prior to metallographic, petrographic, or materials microstructural analysis. Operating on a fixed-speed, manually guided abrasive cutting principle, the system employs a rotating diamond-impregnated or silicon carbide wheel to achieve clean, low-distortion cross-sections with minimal thermal and mechanical damage. Its rigid cast-iron base, adjustable specimen clamping vise, and integrated coolant delivery system collectively ensure dimensional stability and reproducible cut quality—critical prerequisites for subsequent grinding, polishing, and microscopic evaluation per ASTM E3, ISO 643, and USP . Unlike automated systems, the LK-SD180 prioritizes operator control and procedural transparency, making it especially suitable for teaching laboratories, QC/QA environments with variable sample geometries, and R&D labs requiring rapid iterative sectioning under direct visual supervision.

Key Features

• Rigid structural frame with vibration-dampening cast-iron base for enhanced cutting stability and reduced runout
• Manually actuated feed mechanism with calibrated depth stop and ergonomic handwheel for precise, repeatable specimen positioning
• Integrated coolant circulation system with adjustable nozzle and reservoir (capacity: ~5 L), compatible with water-soluble coolants and oil-based lubricants to suppress heat generation and prevent phase transformation or oxidation at the cut interface
• High-torque 3 kW induction motor delivering consistent 2800 rpm spindle speed under load, optimized for Φ250 mm abrasive wheels (2 mm thickness, 32 mm bore)
• Adjustable vise with T-slot base and quick-release clamps accommodating irregularly shaped samples up to Φ80 mm diameter or equivalent cross-sectional area
• Compliance-ready design: CE-marked electrical enclosure, emergency stop button, transparent polycarbonate safety guard with interlock switch, and splash-resistant housing meeting IEC 61000-6-2/6-4 immunity and emission requirements

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The LK-SD180 accommodates a broad spectrum of conductive and non-conductive materials—including ferrous and non-ferrous alloys, ceramics, composites, geological specimens (e.g., basalt, granite), and polymer-matrix composites—without requiring specialized fixturing. Its manual operation allows real-time adaptation to heterogeneous microstructures, brittle phases, or multi-layered assemblies where automated feed rates may induce chipping or delamination. All mechanical and electrical subsystems conform to GB/T 13306–2011 (Chinese national standard for labeling of industrial equipment) and incorporate safeguards aligned with ISO 12100:2010 (risk assessment principles). While not FDA-registered, the unit supports GLP-compliant documentation workflows when paired with lab-specific SOPs for sample traceability, maintenance logs, and calibration records.

Software & Data Management

As a manually operated mechanical system, the LK-SD180 does not incorporate embedded firmware, touchscreen interfaces, or digital data logging. This architecture eliminates software validation burdens and ensures long-term operational continuity without dependency on proprietary drivers or OS updates. All operational parameters—including coolant flow rate, wheel wear status, and clamp torque—are recorded manually in laboratory notebooks or LIMS-integrated forms. Optional accessories include a calibrated digital tachometer (for periodic spindle speed verification) and a portable surface roughness tester (to quantify cut-face Ra values pre-polishing), both traceable to NIM (National Institute of Metrology, China) standards.

Applications

• Preparation of specimens for optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) analysis
• Sectioning of weld joints, heat-affected zones (HAZ), and coated substrates for interfacial integrity assessment
• Routine QC sampling in foundries, forging plants, and additive manufacturing facilities
• Teaching core metallurgy concepts—including grain structure evolution, phase boundary identification, and inclusion rating—in university materials science curricula
• Archival sample preparation for forensic metallurgical investigations and failure analysis reports

FAQ

Is the LK-SD180 compatible with diamond-coated cutting wheels from third-party suppliers?

Yes—provided the wheel meets ISO 6344-2:2017 dimensional tolerances (Φ250 × 2 × 32 mm) and is rated for 2800 rpm maximum operating speed.
Does the machine support coolant filtration or recirculation upgrades?

Standard configuration includes a gravity-fed reservoir; optional magnetic filter kits and centrifugal pump modules are available for closed-loop operation.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for sustained accuracy?

Lubrication of linear guides every 200 operating hours; spindle bearing inspection annually or after 1,000 cutting cycles; coolant replacement every 3 months under continuous use.
Can the LK-SD180 be integrated into an ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing laboratory’s equipment management system?

Yes—the absence of embedded electronics simplifies metrological traceability; calibration certificates for optional tachometers and torque wrenches are issued with NIM-traceable uncertainty statements.