SOLY ZXQ-3S Dual-Head Automatic Hot Mounting Press
| Brand | SOLY |
|---|---|
| Origin | Shanghai, China |
| Model | ZXQ-3S |
| Instrument Type | Hot Mounting Press |
| Sample Diameter Capacity | Ø30 mm (customizable to Ø22 mm, Ø40 mm, Ø50 mm) |
| Heating System | Dual 220 V / 1650 W Cartridge Heaters |
| Temperature Range | 35–200 °C |
| 保温 Time Setting | 1–99 min |
| Cooling Time Setting | 0–60 min |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 650 × 500 × 560 mm |
| Net Weight | 105 kg |
Overview
The SOLY ZXQ-3S Dual-Head Automatic Hot Mounting Press is an engineered solution for reproducible, high-integrity hot compression mounting of metallurgical, ceramic, polymer, and composite specimens. Designed specifically for micro-scale, irregular, or fragile samples that cannot be reliably handled during grinding and polishing, this press utilizes thermosetting resin (e.g., phenolic, epoxy, or acrylic) under controlled heat and pressure to produce dimensionally stable, edge-retentive mounts. The dual-head architecture enables simultaneous or sequential mounting of two specimens—significantly improving throughput in high-volume metallographic laboratories without compromising process consistency. Its fully automated cycle includes programmable heating, dwell (curing), and active air-cooling phases, terminating with automatic specimen ejection upon completion. This eliminates manual intervention during critical thermal transitions, reducing operator variability and enhancing inter-laboratory comparability of mounted samples per ASTM E3, ISO 15510, and EN 10365 standards.
Key Features
- Dual independent mounting stations with synchronized or staggered operation modes—ideal for comparative studies or batch processing of dissimilar materials.
- Precise digital temperature control (±1.5 °C accuracy) across a broad 35–200 °C range, supporting both low-temperature acrylic resins and high-temperature phenolic formulations.
- Programmable thermal dwell time (1–99 minutes) and forced-air cooling duration (0–60 minutes), enabling optimization for resin-specific cure kinetics and minimizing internal stress development.
- Automated post-cycle specimen elevation: Upon cooling completion, the upper platen rises automatically, presenting the mounted sample at ergonomic height for safe, tool-free removal.
- Robust cast-iron frame with reinforced hydraulic actuation system delivering consistent clamping force (>15 MPa nominal pressure at full stroke), ensuring uniform resin flow and minimal void formation.
- Integrated safety interlocks—including overtemperature cutoff, lid-open detection, and pressure relief monitoring—to comply with IEC 61000-6-2 EMC and EN 61000-6-4 emission requirements.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The ZXQ-3S accommodates standard round mounting cups (Ø30 mm base configuration), with optional custom dies available for Ø22 mm, Ø40 mm, and Ø50 mm formats to support diverse specimen geometries—from wire cross-sections and powder compacts to fractured fracture surfaces and thin foils. It is compatible with all major thermosetting mounting media, including fast-cure acrylics (e.g., Technovit 5071), high-hardness phenolics (e.g., Bakelite L-22), and low-expansion epoxies (e.g., Epofix). All operational parameters are logged with timestamped audit trails, satisfying documentation requirements for GLP-compliant metallographic labs and ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing facilities. The unit meets CE marking criteria for machinery safety (2006/42/EC) and electromagnetic compatibility.
Software & Data Management
While the ZXQ-3S operates via an intuitive front-panel membrane interface with real-time parameter display, it supports optional RS-232/USB data export for integration into centralized laboratory information management systems (LIMS). Cycle logs—including setpoints, actual temperatures, pressure profiles, and start/stop timestamps—are exportable as CSV files for traceability, QA review, or regulatory submission (e.g., FDA 21 CFR Part 11–aligned environments when paired with validated LIMS software). No proprietary drivers or cloud dependencies are required; raw data remains fully accessible and human-readable.
Applications
- Routine preparation of ferrous and non-ferrous alloy sections for ASTM E3–conformant grain size analysis and inclusion rating.
- Mounting of brittle intermetallics, sintered carbides, and additive-manufactured components prior to precision sectioning and SEM-EDS cross-sectional analysis.
- Encapsulation of multi-phase composites and coated substrates to preserve interface integrity during mechanical polishing.
- High-throughput sample conditioning in failure analysis labs handling electronic packaging, turbine blade coatings, or biomedical implants.
- Teaching laboratories requiring repeatable, hands-off mounting protocols for undergraduate metallurgy and materials science curricula.
FAQ
What mounting cup sizes are supported out of the box?
The standard configuration includes Ø30 mm mounting cups. Custom tooling for Ø22 mm, Ø40 mm, and Ø50 mm diameters is available as factory-installed options.
Can the ZXQ-3S be used with cold-mounting resins?
No—it is a dedicated hot-mounting press. Cold mounting requires separate vacuum-impregnation equipment and is not supported by this platform.
Is external water cooling required?
No. The system uses regulated ambient-air convection cooling; no plumbing or chiller integration is necessary.
Does the unit support password-protected parameter locking?
Yes—administrator-level access allows setting protected presets for routine applications, preventing inadvertent modification by junior operators.
What maintenance intervals are recommended?
Heater calibration verification every 12 months; die cavity cleaning after each resin type change; hydraulic oil inspection every 24 months per manufacturer’s service bulletin SB-ZXQ-3S-Rev.4.
