KERN OKM 173 Metallurgical Microscope
The KERN OKM 173 Metallurgical Microscope is a specialised optical instrument for precise material analysis and industrial quality control. Developed for demanding surface examinations and material testing, it delivers outstanding results thanks to state-of-the-art infinity optics, powerful reflected light illumination and versatile contrast options. Its ergonomic, robust design and flexible adaptation to different samples make it the ideal solution for laboratories, materials engineering and quality assurance. Compared to conventional reflected light microscopes, this model impresses with its wide range of configuration options, easy documentation integration and particularly high image quality.
Precision and versatility for professional material analysis
The microscope is tailored to industrial requirements and offers a combination of precision, flexibility and user comfort that is particularly suitable for metallurgical laboratories, research institutions and quality assurance departments. The specially developed infinity optics provide users with maximum sharpness and high-contrast images across the entire field of view. The following highlights in particular contribute to its high performance:
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Infinity optical system: Ensures razor-sharp images and allows easy expansion of the optical system, for example with additional filters or cameras.
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4x objective turret: Offers objectives with 5x, 10x, 20x and 40x magnification - ideal for a wide range of analyses from coarse to fine structures. Filters for different contrast and colour views (blue, green, yellow, grey, blank) and continuously dimmable - always optimal lighting conditions for heterogeneous test specimens. Large, stable mechanical specimen stage: Ensures precise positioning even of heavy or unwieldy samples.
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Trinocular Siedentopf tube: 30° inclined, 360° swivelling; promotes ergonomic working and enables camera connection for digital documentation.
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Double-sided coarse and fine drive: Allows precise, comfortable focusing for different users and sample types.
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Power supply (100-240 V), dust cover and eyecups included: Increases operational safety and protection.
Combined with a compact design (dimensions 440 x 200 x 460 mm; net weight 7.5 kg), the microscope is space-saving and stable, allowing flexible placement in the laboratory environment. The high-quality, continuously dimmable halogen illumination in accordance with industry standards (Philips) ensures consistently high-contrast results. The 5-position filter wheel makes it much easier to switch between filters and promotes efficient work when sample requirements change. The trinocular design is particularly practical: it enables parallel observation and simultaneous recording with camera systems from a wide range of manufacturers using a C-mount adapter (not included). The Siedentopf tube with adjustable eye relief (50-75 mm) and dioptre compensation ensures ideal ergonomics and an individual viewing experience. The robust, precise adjustment mechanism ensures that work remains absolutely precise even with high sample uptake.
Relevant standards and certifications
The microscope complies with international standards for laboratory and analysis technology and is CE certified. Other industry-specific standards (e.g. DIN EN ISO 9001 for quality management in laboratories) are also met, which is essential for industry and research.
Typical applications in metallurgical and industrial environments
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Surface inspection of metal parts: Thorough inspection of castings, sheet metal and precision components - also suitable for hardened steel and sensitive alloys such as chromium or nickel.
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Analysis and documentation of crack and fracture edges: Rapid detection and evaluation of material fatigue, for example on tools or weld seams.
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Examination of coatings and paints: Identification of layer thicknesses, defects, corrosion protection and surface treatments on metallic samples.
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Quality assessment of joints: Inspection of weld seams, solder joints and other material joints in complex industrial assemblies.
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Characterisation of special alloys and surface structures: Detailed analysis of nickel, chrome or other hard material layers and their homogeneity.
Focused reflected light microscopy makes the device ideal for all non-transparent, reflective and opaque materials - a decisive advantage over classic transmitted light microscopes.
FAQ - Practical answers for professional use
How can the reflected light illumination be precisely adjusted?
The halogen illumination is continuously dimmable. The integrated 5-position filter wheel (blue, green, yellow, grey, empty) allows the desired contrasts and colour variations to be quickly implemented, making it easy to adapt to different materials - from shiny steel to coated surfaces.
Is the microscope prepared for digital documentation?
Thanks to the trinocular tube, a wide variety of microscope cameras can be connected using a C-mount adapter (sold separately). This combination allows live images and reliable documentation of test results for QM systems.
How can the microscope be optimally cleaned and protected in the long term?
After use, the dust cover supplied protects the sensitive optical system. A soft, lint-free cloth is recommended for cleaning; optical components can be treated with mild liquid cleaners specially designed for lenses.
Is the microscope suitable for transparent samples?
The model is consistently optimised for reflected light microscopy and thus for non-transparent, reflective samples. A transmitted light option or transmitted light illumination is not provided.
Conclusion
The KERN OKM 173 metallurgical microscope impresses in industrial and scientific applications with its excellent precision, adaptability and durable workmanship. Modular optics, versatile filter options and robust mechanics make it a first-class solution for metallurgical laboratories, testing services and research institutes. This microscope clearly stands out in the market, especially when it comes to the highest demands in surface inspection, quality control and documentation.
