KERN metallurgical microscope OKM 173
Precise performance for demanding material analyses
This microscope is designed to deliver maximum precision for industrial materials testing and surface analysis. Thanks to its excellent optics and robust design, it enables reliable quality control even with difficult samples. Similar reflected light microscopes such as the [KERN OBL 135] or the versatile [KERN OBF 132] also perform strongly, but this model impresses with its powerful 30W halogen design and integrated 5-position filter wheel. This allows filters to be quickly adjusted in order to quickly create different contrast views or color variations.
Performance features and benefits
If you value high-quality images in metal and material science, you will benefit from a sophisticated system that combines various technologies in a compact housing. The integrated Infinity optics ensure excellent image quality across the entire field of view and also allow easy expansion of the optical system. The microscope was designed for surface and edge sections, but is also ideal for analyzing coatings and material structures. Even thick samples or non-transparent pieces of material can be examined without compromising resolution.
The infinitely dimmable halogen illumination (Philips), combined with the large mechanical stage and the coarse and fine drive on both sides, makes the workflow considerably easier. This ensures consistently high-contrast results even in changing light conditions. In addition, the simple polarization unit (analyzer and polarizer) included in the scope of delivery enables in-depth insights into certain surface structures. This means that even the smallest material defects can be detected quickly, allowing for early quality checks.
Construction and ease of use
A 4x nosepiece offers the flexibility to quickly switch between different magnifications. A total of 5x, 10x, 20x and 40x are available with the integrated objectives. The trinocular design allows the connection of a camera so that results can be documented and digitally evaluated. A suitable C-mount adapter is required for this, which enables an efficient connection to different camera models.
The Siedentopf tube is tilted 30° and can be rotated 360°. This allows multiple users to quickly find their optimum working position. The diopter compensation on one side also enables individual focusing for each eye. Together with an interpupillary distance of 50 to 75 mm, ergonomics are guaranteed for a wide range of users.
Technical highlights
- Robust Infinity optics for clear, sharp images
- 4x nosepiece with 5x / 10x / 20x / 40x objectives
- High-quality halogen incident light illumination (30W) with 5x filter wheel
- Stable mechanical stage for precise material analysis
- Trinocular Siedentopf tube (30° inclined, 360° rotatable)
- Coarse and fine drive on both sides for quick focusing
- Net weight of approx. 7.488 kg for a secure stand on the laboratory bench
The overall dimensions are 440 x 200 x 460 mm, which makes the device space-saving. A dust cover and eyecups are included in the scope of delivery so that it can be used directly in industrial environments.
Application examples
- Inspection of surface defects on metal parts, such as castings or sheet metal
- Examination of crack and fracture edges to determine the material structure
- Analysis of coatings, paints and corrosion protection layers on metal surfaces
- Quality inspection of weld seams or joints on complex assemblies
The device really comes into its own with hard materials such as hardened steel or when characterizing nickel or chrome coatings: The powerful lighting and the wide range of contrast options make it easier to detect the smallest flaws.
FAQs
Which lighting settings are possible
The halogen illumination can be dimmed continuously and adjusted to the sample requirements using the 5-fold filter wheel (blue, green, yellow, gray, empty). This allows you to achieve the best possible contrasts for every material.
Which cameras can be connected
Thanks to the trinocular tube, it is possible to connect various microscope cameras using a suitable C-mount adapter. This is ideal for documentation purposes or live viewing.
How can the microscope be cleaned and protected?
A dust cover is included in the scope of delivery. We recommend light cleaning with a soft, lint-free cloth and, if necessary, special mild cleaning fluids for optics.
Is transmitted light viewing also possible?
No. The model is designed for reflected light microscopy, which means it is specially optimized for non-transparent, reflective samples.
Conclusion
The KERN metallurgical microscope OKM 173 combines a robust design with professional optics to meet the requirements of industry, research and quality assurance. Thanks to the powerful incident light with integrated filter wheel, the comfortable specimen stage and the trinocular design, it is a solid choice for anyone who wants to carry out reliable surface and material analyses at a high level. The combination of a broad magnification spectrum, smooth handling and precise adjustment to capture even the smallest details in metal samples and other materials is particularly impressive.
