Surface Profile

The profile of a surface influences how well the coating on top of it will perform. It exerts effects on the adhesive strength, as well as the coverage and consumption of the coating material. Very smooth surfaces with low profiles are difficult to paint, as the coating adheres poorly. Surfaces with high profiles, however, require very thick coatings.

Fischer's devices and probes record a one-dimensional tactile profile. They measure the differences in height from peak to valley according to ASTM 4417, Method B. The value for the profile depth is determined by 10 measurements. Various guidelines and regulations, e.g. SSPC PA 17, can be fulfilled by measuring the surface profile depths in this way.