In 1998, the "Specimen Preparation" working group of the "Metallography Com
mittee" of the DGM set up a group trial to investigate the possible methods
of preparing a coated cutting insert for metallographical examination. The
aim of the trial was to collect suggestions and information on how best to
reveal the microstructures of composite materials and ceramics. Fifteen la
boratories, both from industry and research, submitted their findings.