Clamping fixtures for mounting small samples
PELCO® Sample Clamps are clamping fixtures designed for microscopy sample preparation and sample mounting for metallographic samples, dimpled TEM samples, SEM specimens, and similar applications. The smallest size is suitable for smaller samples such as wedge-polishing TEM cross-sections. The larger single clamps are 2" wide by 3" tall and can accommodate samples up to 1.25" (31mm) in height. It is ideal for mounting samples in conjunction with Dimpling & Delayering, and Lapping processes. The PELCO® Petrographic Sample Clamp is a dual clamping version sized to accommodate two standard petrographic slides (1-7/8" x 1-1/16" 46 x 27mm).
The #815-544 single and #813-546 Petrographic Sample Clamps have PEEK soft jaws and a PEEK cover. The cover can be removed for hot mount applications such as when using mounting wax, or thermally cured epoxies. Like PTFE, PEEK does not adhere to most resins and is resistant to solvents such as acetone, allowing for easy cleanup, and is stable up to 200° Celsius. Turning the knob at the top of the clamp clockwise raises the piston for easy sample placement, then counter-clockwise applies force via the 9 lb spring.
The thickness and uniformity of the glue at the interface of sample and substrate is critical to quality sample preparation. The PELCO® Sample Clamps provide a fixed clamping force, assuring even spreading of resin. They can be placed directly on a hotplate for use with mounting waxes and higher curing temperature epoxies or other resins, or to remove low melting resins and demount samples. They are essential accompaniments for many sample preparation applications including: dimple grinding, delayering, metallography, wedge polishing, and petrography.