Phenom Metallurgical Mount Sample Holder for Desktop SEM
| Brand | Phenom |
|---|---|
| Origin | Netherlands |
| Manufacturer Type | Manufacturer |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | Metallurgical Mount Sample Holder |
| Price | Upon Request |
Overview
The Phenom Metallurgical Mount Sample Holder is a purpose-engineered accessory designed exclusively for use with Phenom desktop scanning electron microscopes (SEM), including the Phenom XL series. Unlike standard sample cups, this holder is optimized for metallurgical specimens—specifically those prepared by hot or cold resin embedding, followed by sectioning and polishing. Its mechanical architecture ensures consistent working distance, critical for high-resolution imaging and quantitative energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analysis. The holder operates on a modular plug-in principle: it accepts interchangeable inserts that precisely position embedded samples at a fixed Z-height, eliminating tilt-induced artifacts in EDS quantification and topographic imaging. This design directly addresses a fundamental challenge in metallographic SEM workflows—maintaining coplanarity across multiple mounted samples without manual shimming or iterative stage adjustment.
Key Features
- Modular insert-based platform supporting three standardized metallurgical mount diameters: 25 mm (1″), 32 mm (1.25″), and 40 mm (1.5″)
- Precision-machined aluminum body with anodized finish for dimensional stability and electrostatic dissipation
- Integrated hex-key tool included for secure, repeatable specimen clamping
- Zero-contact base design: embedded specimen undersides do not contact the cup surface, preventing contamination and enabling uniform charging control
- Fixed working distance alignment across all inserts—ensuring reproducible focus, magnification calibration, and EDS geometry
- Compatible with Phenom’s automated stage navigation and EDS mapping routines without recalibration
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The holder accommodates standard thermoset or thermoplastic resin-embedded metallurgical specimens up to 32 mm in diameter and 30 mm in height. It complies with widely adopted metallographic preparation standards, including ASTM E3-22 (Standard Guide for Preparation of Metallographic Specimens) and ISO 16922:2017 (Metallographic examination — Preparation of metallographic specimens). Its geometry supports routine compliance with GLP/GMP documentation requirements for materials characterization labs, particularly where traceable sample positioning and batch-wise EDS data comparability are mandated. No conductive coating is required for most conductive alloys; non-conductive mounts may be analyzed using Phenom’s low-vacuum or charge-compensation modes without compromising insert integrity.
Software & Data Management
When used with Phenom’s Phenom Desktop Software (v6.0+), the metallurgical holder enables automated multi-position acquisition workflows. Users can define grid-based scan areas across multiple mounted samples within a single insert, with automatic stage repositioning and focus recovery. All acquired images and EDS spectra are tagged with positional metadata—including insert type, specimen ID, and Z-offset reference—facilitating audit-ready data lineage per FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when deployed in regulated environments. Export formats include TIFF (with embedded scale bars), CSV (for spectral peak intensities), and .phenom project files supporting full parameter traceability.
Applications
- Quality control of sintered metals, cast alloys, and additive-manufactured components
- Failure analysis of fracture surfaces, corrosion layers, and intergranular precipitates
- Phase identification and distribution mapping in duplex stainless steels and nickel-based superalloys
- Coating thickness measurement and interface characterization in thermal barrier systems
- Educational metallography labs requiring rapid, operator-independent sample loading and comparative analysis
FAQ
Is this holder compatible with all Phenom SEM models?
Yes—it is fully compatible with Phenom XL, Pure, Pro, and Geo models equipped with the standard 50 mm diameter sample stage.
Can I use non-Phenom branded metallurgical mounts?
Only mounts conforming to ISO 16922-defined outer dimensions and flatness tolerances (< ±5 µm) are recommended to ensure Z-height repeatability.
Does the holder require grounding or additional shielding?
No—the anodized aluminum construction provides inherent electrostatic dissipation; no external grounding strap is needed under standard operating conditions.
How often should the hex-key clamping mechanism be inspected?
Visual inspection is advised before each daily use; torque retention remains stable for ≥10,000 insertion cycles when used within specified load limits.
Is EDS quantification accuracy validated for this holder configuration?
Yes—Phenom’s factory calibration includes Z-height-dependent k-factor correction tables specific to each insert size, traceable to NIST SRM 2197a reference materials.
