What Is the Best Way to Measure Powder Coatings?
Powder coatings are applied to a wide range of products for both functional and decorative purposes. Not only do these types of finishes yield a more attractive appearance, but they also provide valuable durability, protecting coated items from corrosion and other forms of damage. Additionally, because powder coatings are available in hundreds of colors and textures, they allow manufacturers to customize their products to fit their branding and offer multiple options to consumers.
When applying a powder coating, finishers must pay close attention to its thickness, as this can determine the part or productβs longevity, appearance, and performance. In addition, powder coatings have various functional capabilities that require different coating thicknesses; therefore, proper measurement is crucial. Adhering to thickness specifications also ensures that no material is wasted, potentially saving tens of thousands of dollars in manufacturing costs.
Read on to learn more about powder coating measurements and how Fischer Technology can help streamline the process.
How to Measure Powder Coatings
Coating thickness measurement is an essential process for both custom coaters and those involved in the quality assurance of finished goods. This measurement can be taken before or after curing, though it is often conducted post-cure to ensure the best results.
Fischer Technologyβs instruments utilize magnetic induction and eddy current methods to determine the thickness of powder coatings. Both options offer non-destructive measurement, thus protecting the integrity of the end-product while providing accurate data. Instruments that utilize magnetic induction are designed for use on magnetizable base materials, such as steel or iron, with non-magnetic coatings (e.g., zinc, chrome, paints, or plastics). Meanwhile, the eddy current method is reserved for use on base materials that are electrically conductive but not magnetic. This includes metals like copper and aluminum. The coating on these materials must be electrically insulating, meaning it is made of plastic or lacquer.
Because powder coatings are applied to an extensive array of products, from lawn chairs to automotive parts, inspectors and applicators must choose the proper measurement instrument and probe. Therefore, many users will benefit from selecting a measurement gauge that offers interchangeable probes for various applications, such as those found in Fischerβs FMP family of products.
The Superior Performance of Fischerβs Powder Coating Thickness Gauges
Fischer Technologyβs selection of coating thickness gauges is designed with user-friendliness in mind. This applies to both learning how to use the instrument as well as operating it. All of our coating thickness gauges generate accurate measurements for optimal quality control. We offer several handheld devices that can be brought directly to the part or product that needs to be tested, thus reducing the time spent transporting materials to testing locations. These gauges also provide rapid reads, and many include multiple probes that can be interchanged to fit specific applications.
From electroplated layers to protective coatings, Fischer gauges are capable of adapting to various environments, allowing accurate measurement of any type of powder coating on nearly any surface. Because measurements are conducted in a single process, coating applicators and product inspectors can save valuable time and feel confident that they have the most reliable data.
Companies across the globe have trusted Fischer Technologyβs handheld coating thickness gauges for decades. To learn more about our devices or determine which option best suits your needs, contact our customer service team today.