Measuring powder coating thickness
The best methods for testing powder coatings.
Powder coatings are applied to numerous products for functional and decorative purposes. They not only improve the appearance, but also reliably protect against corrosion and other damage. As they are available in many colors and textures, manufacturers can customize their products.
Measuring the thickness of the powder coating is crucial to ensure consistent quality and the desired properties. The coating thickness influences the durability, appearance and performance of the product. Different applications require specific coating thicknesses - precise measurement of the powder coating thickness is therefore essential. It prevents material waste and contributes significantly to cost efficiency in production.
How to measure the powder coating thickness?
The measurement of coating thickness is an important procedure for both application coaters and those involved in the quality assurance of finished products. This measurement of powder coating thickness can be done before or after curing, but is often done after curing to get the best results.
Fischer devices use magnetic induction and eddy current methods to determine the thickness of powder coatings. Both options are non-destructive measuring methods, protecting the integrity of the end product while providing accurate data. Devices that use magnetic induction are suitable for magnetizable base materials such as steel or iron with non-magnetic coatings for example zinc, chrome, paints or plastics. The eddy current method, on the other hand, is intended for electrically conductive but non-magnetic base materials. These include metals such as copper and aluminum. The coating of these materials must be electrically insulating, i.e. it must be made of plastic or paint.
As powder coatings are applied to a wide range of products – from garden chairs to car parts – inspectors and applicators need to choose the right gauge with the matching probe. It is therefore beneficial for many users to choose a measuring device that offers interchangeable probes for different applications, such as the products in Fischer's FMP or DMP® family.
The outstanding performance of the Fischer coating thickness gauges for powder coatings.
Our Fischer coating thickness gauges have been developed with particular focus on user-friendliness. They are intuitive to use, allowing users to quickly learn how to operate the devices. All of our coating thickness gauges deliver accurate and reliable measurement results for optimum quality control. We offer several portable handheld gauges that can be brought directly to the part or product to be tested, reducing the time required to transport materials to the test sites. These gauges also provide fast readings, and many include multiple probes that can be interchanged on-site depending on the application. From electroplated coatings and anti-corrosion coatings to all types of powder coatings on metallic surfaces, our measuring devices master a wide range of applications in various environmental conditions. Since the measurements are performed in a single process, coaters and product testers can save valuable time while relying on consistently repeatable measurement results.
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