One common application for Microsoft is in situ microstructure replication for checking metallurgical quality, heat treatment and creep damage. For many years replica systems based on Acetate films have been used for this purpose. These methods are difficult, inherently unreliable and operators need special training and certification.

Microset 101 MICRO replicas are suitable for microscopic examination over he normal microscope magnification range of times 50-1000. They provide similar detailed information to Acetate replicas but have the major advantage of being very easy to produce. Only minimal operator training is required.

In situ metallography using replicas is used for all types of metals and alloys.

Duplex stainless Steel Oilfield Components.
Duplex stainless steel oilfield components are routinely checked in this way for the presence of Sigma phase. These alloys can suffer local corrosion adjacent to welds if Sigma phase is allowed to form during welding and is not removed by heat treatment.

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Sigma Phase adjacent to a weld in a duplex stainless steel. (Microset 101 MICRO replica).