Scot Forge an industry leader in open die and rolled ring forging, has announced the addition of a new digital image analysis and archiving system in its metallurgical test laboratory at its Spring Grove, IL location.

Specifically, the digital system is used to process photographs taken during metallographic analysis, a procedure that involves sectioning a metal sample to examine its microstructure under a microscope. In addition to metallographic analysis, Scot Forge's comprehensive, certified test lab also offers mechanical, impact, and fracture toughness testing; chemical analysis; and hardness testing. As one of Scot Forge's many value-added services, test lab helps advance customer production, research and development and quality control.

Tony Biell, chief Metallurgist at Scot Forge, said having a digital imaging system is especially important for helping customers document quality and meet quality standards such as ISO 9000.

He added, "Having the ability to sort and retrieve today's images 20 years from now means that knowledge and experience won't leave the company even after a metallurgist retires. The company's metallurgical knowledge base can continually expand with this system in place.