The Qmount is a modern device for the light-curing-based mounting of materialographic samples.
The samples are placed in the device which is equipped with customized, powerful LED technology. The UV transparent mounting moulds are filled with the UV curing resin. The transparent sample can be removed within a very short time frame. A suction unit from the QATM portfolio can be connected to the device to increase work safety.
Product Advantages
- UV mounting in the shortest possible time (60 seconds)
- Highly efficient, long-life LED technology
- Robust machine design
- Easy handling
- Connectable suction unit (optional)
Mounting in a short time
The compact laboratory device is equipped with specially developed and durable LED boards, which irradiate the samples highly efficiently with UV radiation of a very narrowly tolerated wavelength range (emission maximum at lambda = 365 nm) and allow standard samples to cure within 60 seconds.
UV Mounting in 60 seconds The fast way to transparent mounted samples
Robust technology
The integrated ventilation guarantees low polymerisation temperatures of approx. 70 - 90 ° C. A robust design with a powder-coated aluminum housing and high-quality components enable high sample volumes. The hood is equipped with cushioned hinges to close it gently.
High sample capacity
The device contains a scratch-resistant glass plate (200 x 260 mm) which enables the simultaneous curing of up to 12 samples with a diameter of 40 mm. The work area is easy to clean due to the simple design.
Easiest operation
The process parameters are clearly shown on a color display and can be continuously adjusted using a rotary knob. The mounting process is started, paused or ended using the QATM start-stop button. An acoustic signal informs the user at the end of the process.
Multi-task versatility
Due to the very short process times, the Qmount opens up the possibility of producing transparent, materialographic standard mountings of various materials very quickly and cost-effectively.
Work safety and comfort
As standard, the device is equipped with a connection for external suction to filter the vapors and odors and to increase work safety. A suitable suction device with activated carbon filter is available in the QATM accessories.
UV Mounting Device Qmount Superiority in detail
1. Robust housing
- Sturdy powder-coated aluminum construction
- Easy to clean
- Integrated ventilation
2. Large scratch-resistant glass plate
- Allows up to 12 samples simultaneously
- Dimensions: 200 mm x 260 mm
3. Highly efficient UV LED technology
- Very short curing times of only one minute
4. Practical flip-top closure
- Simple and intuitive operation
Qmount Highly efficient UV LED technology
To minimize loss of electric power the Qmount is equipped with specialized UV LEDs. These show a very slim emission spectrum, which maximum superimposes with the absorption maximum of the KEM 50 UV initiator. This enables shorter curing times with a low electric consumption.
UV initiators get the necessary activation energy for the initiation reaction by absorbing UV radiation. Every molecule has a specific absorption spectrum, which shows certain wavelength areas in which the absorption coefficient of the molecule is particularly large. Outside of the so called absorption maxima a large portion of the emitted radiation is lost. Standard UV LEDs usually emit a significant amount of radiation besides the wavelength intervals in which the initiator has a good absorption. This radiation is converted to heat.
Influence of the LED type on light curing processes
- Orange curve: Qmount LEDs
- Blue curve: Standard near UV LEDs
- Grey area: Absorption maximum of UV initiator
Consumables
For a perfect mounting process, QATM offers the appropriate UV curing resin, UV transparent mounting moulds in different diameters and mounting aids.
Background information UV Mounting
Cold Mounting with UV Mounting Devices for Metallographic and Materialographic Sample Preparation
UV mounting devices are used for cold mounting, a technique that encapsulates a sample in resin so it can be safely handled, grinded, polished, and examined under a microscope. In sample preparation, metallographic mounting gives the sample a defined shape and a stable edge and protects fragile structures during the steps that follow. UV mounting relies on a light‑curing resin that hardens within seconds to minutes when exposed to UV light, at room temperature and without applied pressure.
Gentle Handling for Sensitive Materials
Because curing takes place cold, UV mounting avoids the heat and force associated with hot mounting. This minimizes thermal and mechanical deformation and makes the method well suited to sensitive, heat‑affected, or porous materials, soldered joints, electronic components, and thin or coated layers. Edge retention is excellent, which matters when the region of interest lies close to the sample surface. The transparent resin keeps the mounted specimen visible, simplifying orientation and documentation.
Application Example: PCB Target Preparation
These properties make UV mounting particularly useful for PCB target preparation, where a printed circuit board must be sectioned precisely to a defined target such as a via, plated through‑hole, or solder joint. The transparent resin allows the target to remain visible during grinding, so the cross‑section can be guided accurately to the area of interest, while the low curing temperature protects the surrounding microelectronics. The following video demonstrates how a sample is mounted with the UV mounting device.
Reproducibility Across the Preparation Workflow
A UV mounting device also supports reproducibility. Defined, repeatable curing conditions produce consistent mounts from one sample to the next, helping standardize results across operators and laboratories. Within a complete preparation workflow — cutting, mounting, grinding, polishing, and etching — a reliable mounting machine ensures that each downstream step starts from a stable, accurately prepared sample. Used correctly, UV mounting combines speed, accuracy, and gentle handling, supporting clear and repeatable microstructural analysis in both metallography and materialography.
UV Mounting - FAQ
What is a UV mounting device used for in metallography?
It performs cold mounting by curing a light‑sensitive resin under UV light, encapsulating a specimen so it can be grinded, polished, and examined safely during metallographic sample preparation.
Why choose cold mounting instead of hot mounting?
Cold mounting cures at room temperature without pressure, so it minimizes thermal and mechanical deformation and is better suited to sensitive or heat‑affected materials.
How does UV mounting support reproducible results?
Defined, repeatable curing conditions create consistent mounts, helping standardize sample preparation and microstructural analysis across different operators and laboratories.
UV Mounting Device Qmount Technical Data
| Max. sample support surface | 200 x 260 mm |
|---|---|
| Max. sample height | 40 mm |
| Wavelength | 365 nm |
| Adjustable curing time | 0 - 100 min |
| Polymerization temperature (depending on application) | 70- 90 °C |
| Connection voltage | 100 - 240 V 50/60 Hz (1Ph/N/PE) |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 377 x 172 x 436 mm |
| Weight (depending on equipment) | 14.5 kg |
