Macroscopic Examination, also called Macro Test or Macro Examination, evaluates the quality and consistency of a test sample using only low or no magnification. Macro examination of metals can be used to assess quality through the evaluation of a sample’s macro structural features, which may include grain flow, porosity and cracks.
Macro examination of specimens exposed to passivation, salt spray, case depth and other testing, as well as macroscopic examination of welds are frequently performed. A weld cross section examination will reveal internal discontinuities, weld profile, extent of penetration and more. The macro structural properties of a weldament can be important in weld procedure qualification or welder qualification.