As Buehler sell these, I'll keep it to the point :)
Most people use electrolytic methods for either (1) electropolishing (2) electroetching or (3) anodizing.
The reason for (1) is for materials that are extremely difficult to polish mechanically, where there is time saving or when combined with (2) - so for titanium this can be valuable as you can polish and etch a sample, on a combined unit, in less than 2 minutes (mechanical approach with chemical etch ~10-15min depending on alloy)
The reason for (2) is most often for use with materials that are highly resistant to chemicals, such as stainless steel and nickel alloys. It can also be due to the relatively low hazard***, speed or reproducibility
(3) is very typical for aluminum alloys and can provide excellent information on grain size, shape, orientation as well as segregation
***it is true that the core principle of electrolytic polishing and etching is a power supply and appropriate connections to make the circuit. There are two key reasons for buying dedicated equipment. The first is that some electrolytes are hazardous, especially when they get warm. The dedicated equipment limits current, and also monitors temperature to ensure that unsafe conditions cannot occur. The second reason is reproducibility. The process requires control of current density, and often movement of the electrolyte, to get consistent and even results. Dedicated equipment makes getting reproducible results much, much easier.
Hope that helps!
------------------------------
Michael Keeble
Buehler a Division of ITW
Lake Bluff IL
(847) 393-3645
------------------------------
Original Message:
Sent: 11-18-2020 08:51
From: Sean Piper
Subject: Benefits of Electrolytic Etching
I am considering investing in an electrolytic etching setup for my laboratory but, due to the cost, I need to make a business case. What do you feel are the real strengths of this method as opposed to standard etching? Obviously it depends on what you're trying to do but what materials, phases, etc. do you use it for to accomplish something you cannot accomplish otherwise?
------------------------------
Sean Piper
Product / Process Metallurgist
Ellwood Texas Forge Houston
Houston TX
773-524-8985
------------------------------