What kind of Reference Materials are available after initial training?

Element Pi takes pride in how we support our customers after the initial training and we are constantly striving to provide better resources for this.  As an example, our supplier COXEM just recently completed an entire new video production that provide customers with a reference that is easy to follow for such steps as [...]

What kind of Reference Materials are available after initial training?2019-10-21T13:46:18-08:00

Tabletop SEM EM-30 Plus support after Installation?

The Coxem EM-30 SEM is very simple to maintain in top working condition by the end user.  Thus, we do not push annual service contracts like most SEM suppliers but if desired by the customer, we are happy to provide a service contract.  At most, we would recommend customers to not have anything more [...]

Tabletop SEM EM-30 Plus support after Installation?2019-10-21T13:07:22-08:00

How is the CX-200plus and EDS supported for Installation and Warranty (and after)?

Staring with Installation for the CX-200plus, our Element Pi staff installs the SEM and a technician from the EDS supplier typically installs the EDS.  The EDS Technician typically only does cursory software training and maintenance overview of the EDS.  Our Application Manager who does the SEM training and assists the EDS Technician will stay [...]

How is the CX-200plus and EDS supported for Installation and Warranty (and after)?2018-08-02T15:37:03-08:00

Colorizing SEM Images – How do I add Color to my images?

Although there are many techniques such as using photoshop with multiple BSE images from different Quadrants, we recommend the use of MountainsMap SEM by Digital Surf.  This software makes the process fast and painless, as well as consistent.  An article about this technique by Digital Surf was published in the May 2018 edition of [...]

Colorizing SEM Images – How do I add Color to my images?2018-08-02T15:20:01-08:00

What type of Vacuum Pumps does your SEM use?

Our Tabletop SEM uses a Pfeiffer Hi-Pace80 Turbo pump which is pretty much the standard TMP used in all brands of these smaller SEMs.  There is also a roughing pump.  We offer 2 types. Our EM-30 Plus comes standard with surprisingly quiet Rotary Vane Pump which has an oil reservoir that needs to be [...]

What type of Vacuum Pumps does your SEM use?2019-10-21T13:10:59-08:00

Can EDS be retrofitted to your SEM after purchase?

Absolutely. The EM-30 Plus and EM-30AX Plus are exactly the same SEM.  The “AX” just designates the EDS is pre-installed at the factory.  If we add EDS later though, there would be an additional installation charge.  For the CX-200plus, it has a standard EDS port that all of the EDS manufacturers can adapt their [...]

Can EDS be retrofitted to your SEM after purchase?2018-08-02T14:36:34-08:00

Preparing Cross Sections of Difficult Materials

Great article from Microscopy Today explains tips on getting good cross sectioned samples for SEM analysis. ABSTRACT: Preparing cross sections of particulates and wires for scanning electron microscopy study without inducing mechanical damage is difficult. Embedding materials in commercially available epoxy before polishing with a broad unfocused ion beam (like CP-8000 Cross Section Ion Mill) is a [...]

Preparing Cross Sections of Difficult Materials2019-03-11T12:41:20-08:00

Resin Mounted Sample Preparation

In order to acquire the best analytical results for microstructure, metrology or micro-elemental analysis, specimens are often mounted in a resin "puck" and polished to a mirror finish.  The resin mount is often precision sectioned to expose critical areas of interest that lie within the specimen.  This process assures that a flat oxide-free layer [...]

Resin Mounted Sample Preparation2018-08-03T14:07:26-08:00

Suggested Sources for Consumable Supplies

Our EM-30 and CX-200 sereies SEM systems are delivered with a starter kit that includes most of the basic supplies you will need including 8 pre-centered wehnelt/filaments for the electron gun.  Replacements can be ordered from element Pi or most items can be found at any of the microscopy supply companies on our links [...]

Suggested Sources for Consumable Supplies2018-03-21T16:05:06-08:00

Sample Mounting options for our SEM

Our SEMs are delivered with a variety of sample mounts and accessories.  The most common and easiest to use is our quick-connect holder that allows mounting up to 7 pin stubs of 6.4mm diameter, or 3 pin stubs of 12.7mm diameter or 1 pin stub up to 32mm diameter. Visit this LINK to see options and [...]

Sample Mounting options for our SEM2018-08-03T14:02:24-08:00