New Electric Arc Furnace Installation - Update No.7
20 February 2026
What We Do: Metallurgical Investigations
We deliver comprehensive metallurgical investigations using a wide range of advanced equipment and expertise.
Our investigations span:
◾ Primary as-cast materials
◾ Rolled products and machined components
◾ Parts that have failed in service due to processing or environmental conditions
It all starts with sample preparation
Accurate investigations rely on representative samples. We have the specialist equipment and knowledge to ensure samples are prepared correctly, setting a strong foundation for meaningful analysis.
Advanced microscopy capabilities
Our optical microscopes feature the latest optics and digital imaging, delivering sharp, high-quality images for quantitative measurement against recognised metallurgical standards. The software also provides:
◾ Automated Z-direction stitching for fully focused images
◾ 3D profile mapping
◾ Optical microscopy offers magnification up to ×1000, with digital zoom up to ×10.
Electron microscopy for deeper insight
For higher-resolution analysis, our electron microscopy suite includes a scanning electron microscope (SEM) capable of magnifications up to ×100,000, supported by a full range of detectors for multi-scale characterisation of samples. The detectors are:
◾ Secondary Electron detector (SE) – sensitive to sample’s topography changes
◾ Backscattered Electron detector (BSE) – which provides imaging that carries information on the sample’s composition
◾ Energy-dispersive X-ray (EDS) and Wavelength-dispersive X-ray (WDS) detectors - allowing chemical characterisation of materials
◾ Electron Backscatter Diffraction detector (EBSD) - for microstructural-crystallographic characterisation of samples
Material properties & chemical analysis
We also provide in-house chemical analysis and hardness testing to support a complete understanding of material composition and performance.
To identify material failures and help prevent their recurrence, we utilise state-of-the-art equipment to support root-cause failure analysis through detailed material characterisation.
Advanced Materials Characterisation Centre - https://www.mpiuk.com/research-development-advanced-materials-characterisation-centre.htm
Equipment Guide - Scanning Electron Microscopy - https://www.mpiuk.com/equipment-scanning-electron-microscopy.htm
Equipment Guide - Micro Examination - https://www.mpiuk.com/equipment-micro-examination.htm
19 February 2026
