We can perform particle analysis tests
OIC offers several analytical methods for additive manufacturing powders and wear-generated particle assessment. Our sampling and evaluation procedures follow international test standards as described below.
We employ automated software to perform unbiased particle and powder assessment in a rapid, repeatable fashion. If custom particle analysis is required, our engineering team will develop modified sampling algorithms to suit your specific data needs. We pride ourselves on the ability to meet a customer’s specific needs with a wholly unique, tailored solution.
 Standard Guide for Characterizing Properties of Metal Powders Used for Additive Manufacturing Processes
Particle characterization on metal particles such as additive manufacturing powders using methodology similar to ASTM F1877. Metal powder morphology and particle size are reported using custom automated particle characterization software. |
 Standard Guide for Assessing the Removal of Additive Manufacturing Residues in Medical Devices Fabricated by Powder Bed Fusion
This standard provides a guide for validating cleaning processes performed on additive manufactured parts. Techniques we offer include extraction of residual particles, morphological characterization, composition analysis and total particulate quantity estimation. Samples are processed through ultra-sonication in an appropriate extraction fluid to loosen and remove any manufacturing particulate. This extraction fluid is then filtered to isolate the particles for further analysis. Using custom, automated particle characterization, particle parameters (area, aspect ratio, form factor, roundness, length, perimeter, ferret average and equivalent circular diameter) are measured. Using SEM-EDS, a compositional analysis may be performed on a selection of particles to verify composition. Quantity of total particulate can also be estimated by performing counts on the filtered particles. |
 Characterization of Particles and Retrieval and Analysis of Test Fluids Similar to ISO 17853, in these standards, samples of test fluid are digested and filtered for polyethylene, ceramic or metal particles resulting from wear, fretting, or corrosion. Filtered particles are coated and carefully examined using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), where high definition images are taken for custom automated particle characterization. Particle characterization may include measurements of area, aspect ratio, form factor, roundness, length, perimeter, ferret average, and equivalent circular diameter. Energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS) can also be performed for verification of elemental composition of particles. |
 Wear of Implant Materials – Polymer and Metal Wear Particles Similar to ASTM F1877 and ASTM F561, in this standard, samples of test fluid are digested and filtered for polyethylene, ceramic or metal particles resulting from wear, fretting, or corrosion. Filtered particles are coated and carefully examined using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), where high definition images are taken for custom automated particle characterization. Particle characterization may include measurements of area, aspect ratio, form factor, roundness, length, perimeter, ferret average, and equivalent circular diameter. Energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS) can also be performed for verification of elemental composition of particles. |