The primary purpose of Metallographic microscopes Examination is to reveal details of metal structures, which are too small to be seen under the unaided eye. Metallurgical microscopes can be used to determine grain size, inclusions, previous heat treatment, possible causes for failures, deformation, and inter-granular corrosion. Microscopic Examination can reveal a great deal about the past history of a metal specimen, and how it will act in service.

Metallographic microscopes are highly relevant across the value chain of various industries where metals are used, i.e., from mining via smelting to alloy development, recycling, and additive manufacturing. Metallographic microscopes can be used for research and development (R&D), quality assurance (QA), failure analysis (FA), or inspection.