Struers Transcopy Foils for Metallurgical Replica Examination

[karljp]

I've been using these foils for many years with good results. However during this period I have noticed a progressive deterioration in their user friendliness. Over the years they appear to gone from green to silver to most recently red backed foils. Specifically I have noticed as the weather gets more humid and hot the foils become impossible to use as the ethyl acetate solvent becomes very aggressive to the cellulose acetate foil film. The foils also become incresingly flimsy and hard to handle (crease very easliy) as this weather change occurs as well. Has anyone else ad similar problems with these foils?

Struers being their usual helpful selves have to date refused to answer my queries on this matter.

 

[Metaljon]

Struers have probably changed their supplier and increased their prices by 100%. Why dont you just use a acetate replica softened in acetone and then back the sample up with black insulating tape. It works just as well for a fraction of the Struers price. I get perfect replicas every time using this method.

 

[karljp]

Thanks Metaljon. Could you please provide more detail on how your method works? I've tried the clear acetate film method and it seems very fiddly in comparision with foils, esp on vertical surfaces.

 

[Metaljon]

It is very easy and works in all positions. Just needs a bit of practice. The acetate sheet is cut to size. The surface is wetted with acetone and then apply the acetate replica whilst the surface is still wet. Be careful to let surface dry slightly otherwise unsightly wringles will occur. Then let dry for a few minutes depending on surface temeparture. Apply the black insulating tape over the top followed by double sided tape. Wait another few minutes to ensure completely dry and then remove from the surface and place in storage container.