Comparison of 2D and 3D investigations of non-metallic inclusions in metal samples by different analytical methods

Sammanfattning: The objective of this research is to make a comparison between 2D- and 3D-investigations of non-metallic inclusions (NMIs) in metal samples by different analytical methods. NMIs are undesired particles that degrade the quality of the steel through affecting the mechanical properties. It’s therefor of great importance that NMIs are carefully examined, and the correct investigation method is used depending on what the objective is. The different parameters that were used in this comparison was composition, location, morphology, number and size. The first step in this research was to complete a literature review on the different analytical methods. The examined 2D-methods were ASPEX and INCA Feature, which are automated. The examined 3D-method was electrolytic extraction followed by further examination by SEM, which is a manual examination. The second step was to make an experimental comparison between INCA Feature and electrolytic extraction. It was found that ASPEX and INCA Feature performs well in all parameters except location and morphology, and they are also time-efficient methods. Electrolytic extraction performed well in all parameters but is a time-consuming method. The 2D-methods performs well in the parameters: composition, number and size, and they are also time-efficient. The 3D-method electrolytic extraction is the best when there is a need for a more precise understanding of all the parameters but it’s time-consuming.