MP-1B Polishing Machine Troubleshooting: Solving Scratch Issues with Speed Stability and Pad Maintenance

Why Your MP-1B Polishing Machine Is Causing Scratches — And How to Fix It Fast

If your gold-standard metallographic samples are showing scratches after polishing, you're not alone. In fact, over 67% of lab technicians report inconsistent results due to unoptimized polishing conditions — often linked to overlooked maintenance or improper setup.

The Top 4 Causes Behind Unwanted Scratches

• Contaminated polishing fluid: Even a small amount of grit can cause micro-scratches invisible under low magnification but fatal for SEM analysis.
• Improper pressure control: Too much force = deeper grooves. Too little = incomplete removal of grinding marks.
• Unstable rotational speed: Especially critical at low speeds (below 300 RPM), where vibration and torque ripple become major issues.
• Worn polishing cloth: After 3–5 uses without replacement, most cloths lose their uniform fiber structure — leading to inconsistent finishes.

Here’s what we’ve learned from supporting more than 300 labs worldwide using the MP-1B automatic polishing machine. Start by checking these elements in order — it saves time, reduces rework, and boosts confidence in your results.

Step-by-Step Diagnostic Flow for Rapid Resolution

“After switching to the MP-1B and following our recommended maintenance routine, our QA team cut post-polish inspection time by 40%. No more missed defects.”
— Dr. Lena Müller, Materials Testing Lab, Germany

Pro Tips for Long-Term Performance

To extend equipment life and maintain reproducible results, adopt a simple yet effective schedule:

• Replace polishing cloth every 3–5 sessions or when texture changes (use our polishing cloth kit)
• Use pH-neutral cleaners — never alcohol-based solvents on sensitive pads
• Train all users on standardized procedures (we offer free downloadable PDF guides)

Remember: a well-maintained MP-1B isn’t just about avoiding scratches — it’s about building trust in your data. Whether you’re validating alloy compositions or preparing samples for publication, precision starts here.