A metallurgical microscope is a high-power microscope that is designed with the purpose of observing opaque substances. Unlike biological microscopes, metallurgical microscopes use reflected white light and thus require a high-power light source. Since in many cases, metallurgical samples are often large, most of the microscopes will have a larger stage than biological microscopes and different sizing options are available.
Metallurgical microscopes are used in forensics, ND testing, metallurgy and much more. From measuring films and electroplating coatings, to the assessment of corrosion, ceramics, and metals, these microscopes are highly customizable and can utilize both bright-field and dark-field (DF) illumination.
Things to consider when purchasing a metallurgical microscope include sample size for determining things such as stage size and whether or not use an inverted microscope, location of the microscope, and sample type to determine if DF would be beneficial.