205 - Nital Temper Etch Kit for Steel Inspection

Comprehensive Nital Etch Inspection Kit for Steels

The Nital Etch Test Kit is a specialized chemical solution set designed for the metallographic inspection of carbon and low-alloy steels. Commonly referred to as a "temper etch," this testing method is critical in aerospace, automotive, and precision manufacturing industries to detect surface alterations caused by high-heat processes. The kit is formulated to meet the rigorous requirements of AMS 2649 C (Etch Inspection of High Strength Steel Parts) and MIL-STD-867 C, ensuring compliance with industry-standard quality control protocols.

This three-part system provides everything required to perform a Type 2 etch inspection. The primary solution, Nital Etch, is a mixture of nitric acid and alcohol that selectively attacks the surface of the steel to reveal its microstructure. This process highlights variations in structure, such as martensite or ferrite, and is particularly effective at identifying "grinding burns"—localized areas where friction heat has altered the material's hardness or temper. By revealing these defects, quality assurance teams can prevent the failure of critical components under stress.

In addition to the etching solution, the kit includes a Hydrochloric Acid solution for de-smutting. During the etching process, smut (a dark residue) can form on the surface, obscuring the test results. The HCl solution effectively removes this residue, ensuring a clear and accurate visual inspection. Finally, the Acid Neutralizer solution is provided to halt the chemical reaction and remove any acidic residuals, preventing over-etching or future corrosion of the test sample. This comprehensive approach ensures a safe, controlled, and repeatable testing process for laboratory and industrial environments.

Metallurgists and NDT technicians rely on this kit for its consistency and adherence to military specifications. Whether used for routine batch testing or failure analysis, the Nital Etch Test Kit offers a reliable method for verifying the surface integrity of machined and ground steel parts.