C-Scan is an Acoustic Microscopy analytical testing tool provided at ODT to assist the quality control of the diamond tool productions. It is a non-contact screening method offering unique insight on the PDC cutter or other diamond tools. Its advantages include the detection of void formations, delaminations, cracks, fractures, as well as other hidden internal defects within inherently susceptible materials.

The C-Scan mode provides a planar view image at any specific depth. Much like the MRI machine used to examine patients at the hospital, the separation of the PDC layer can also be tested; illustrations of delaminations and void formations can be generated.

A permanent image along side of a digital automated analysis provides the results of the analyses. The figures shown above (Fig. 1) are the C-scan images to demonstrate the different types of connections between diamond layer and carbide body for qualified PDC cutters.

C-scan inspection on the used PDC cutters along with quality control on the rework process provides a highly accurate, non-destructive diagnosis to ensure production quality at ODT. C-Scan can operate at much higher frequencies (up to 250 MHz) while finding smallest defects, down to even 5-10 µm.

In the following image (Fig. 2), C-scan detects flaws on the used PDC cutters:

Fig. 2 C-Scan imaging of PDC cutters with material flaws

• Efficient and effective grinding for PCD, CVD and PCBN diamond cutters and hard materials.
• Scanning Electron microscopy.
• Non-destructive materials analysis and visual inspection.
• Obtain PDC cutter background and material flaws and internal defects history.
• Cross-section analysis.