PELCO Dimpler

The PELCO Dimpler by Ted Pella is the latest model in the evolution of the Dimpler line. It provides Automated Precision Thinning of Specimens for TEM Analysis, for deprocessing and failure analysis, and similar applications where targeted fine polishing is required. It is a precision electro-mechanical metallographic lapping in­strument that will continuously monitor and control dimpling parameters and accurately terminate at a preset specimen thickness. This electronic and mechanical integration has added repeatability and reliability to the dimpling process, as well as automation.

Active monitoring of the Z-position, feedback-controlled damping, and automated controls for determining termination of processing work together to provide repeatable, reliable results in sample preparation.

Pelco Dimpler Key Features

• The non-contact sensor continuously monitors the Z position. The digital display updates the dimple depth in microns once every revolution, negating any errors due to tool run-out, especially with padded polishing tools.
• You can determine process termination using either the built-in timer or the Z Position. When using Z Position termination, the timer counts up to measure the total elapsed time until reaching the Z Position. Which is useful for creating process recipes for various sample types. The system uses position information from the Non-Contact Position Sensor to dampen the arm. It processes this information and feeds it back to the arm motor. Which controls the up/down force and actively dampening any vibration.
• Automated features make the dimpling process more repeatable and easy to use. You can raise and lower tools at the touch of a button, and set dimpling force, damping force, fine balance, and Z offset (termination point) from the front panel. Once dimpling begins, no monitoring is necessary.
• The working interface for unpadded tools shows high stability in terms of the ΔZ reading (change in the offset value), with deviations usually due to sample tilt. Research indicates that for padded tools, the working diameter is within the nap of the pad. Different mounts are available depending on sample size and type. TEM specimens are generally mounted on optically smooth sapphire flats. Which reduces mounting and dismounting times and allow easy removal of dimpled specimens.
• Standard dimpling tools include flatting and dimpling tools. Which are available in unpadded versions for faster material removal and padded versions for polishing. Made from 316 Stainless steel, flatting tools like Tools 1i and 2i, and Large Area Tools have a flat profile. While Dimpling Tools like 3i and 4i have a radiused profile to produce a pronounced dimple. Flatting tools still produce a dimple with the lowest point at the center of rotation but with a shallower height differential. A variety of padded and unpadded tools meet many dimple polishing process requirements. The 83031 standard tool set for 3mm samples contains six tools: 83010, 83016, 83015, 83012, 83013, and 83014.