Thickness gauge of paint and varnish coating of cars: instructions for use, advice on choosing

The application of paint and varnish layer requires special skill from the master, as well as the observance of careful calculations. It deals with the direct application of the working mass and its preparation. Car body treatment is considered one of the most complicated operations of this kind, since the exploitation of the coating will be associated with a large number of external threats. Accordingly, not only decorative, but also protective properties should be provided. To achieve balance in these qualities allows a thickness gauge of paintwork, thanks to which it is possible to determine the parameters of the layer and, if necessary, make appropriate adjustments.

General information about thickness gauges

Previously, the determination of the thickness of the paint coating was done by a mechanical manual method. An incision was made on the surface of the layer, after which the parameters were estimated with the help of magnifying devices . This method has many disadvantages, but the main one is damage to the coating. In turn, the thickness gauge of paint and varnish coatings of cars allows a non-destructive method to make a survey with an accurate fixation of the depth of the layer.

This method has one more important advantage. The device allows to cover large zones during the survey - the specific dimensions depend on the modification. This aspect is important in cases where the coating is checked for uniformity and uniformity. Obviously, it is simply not advisable to identify the areas that are of questionable quality by the traditional mechanical method - especially if it concerns the body of the machine. But not only cars affect the function of such devices. Often checking the thickness gauge of paint and varnish is required in the construction industry and in industries. Thus, the quality of anticorrosive coatings of various structures and materials is evaluated.

Main characteristics of the device

The measurement range is one of the main performance indicators of the device. On average, it varies from 1,000 to 1,250 microns. That is, from 1 to 1.25 mm. This is the standard range in which most portable models work. It is almost impossible to guess with this magnitude, but it is worth paying attention to the measurement error.

Precision devices are characterized by a possible deviation in the range 0.2-0.3 μm, which is suitable for the use of the method even in technologically advanced industries. Household and construction devices work with an error tolerance in the range of 3-10 μm.

An important characteristic is the temperature regime, in which it is planned to use a thickness gauge of paintwork in one or another modification. Conventional models can operate in conditions up to 40 ° C. Another thing is that the same accuracy of measurement may affect the increased humidity. There are models that are designed to work in such conditions, but this nuance should be calculated from the beginning.

Varieties of models

There are two basic principles of work, according to which devices of this segment are distinguished. This is a magnetic and vortex measurement. Models of the first type operate on the basis of the law by which the force of attraction of magnets acts. And this applies to non-metallic surfaces. The special sensor of the device reacts to the activity of the electromagnetic field generated by the operating elements, which allows one to estimate the thickness of the coating.

Models of the vortex type are supplied with a coil, on which a metal wire is wound. This current winds up the current, which also forms a magnetic field. As a result, the wire begins to react to the electromagnetic field and thus makes it possible to determine the depth of the surveyed layer.

In the question of how to use the thickness gauge of paint coatings of cars to the operator, it all depends on the model, although there are general principles. For example, before using the device, it is checked, and then the work is done automatically. The nuances of the workflow should be considered separately, but before that it makes sense to turn to another kind of such devices.

Features of ultrasonic models

Ultrasonic equipment occupies a separate niche, since it has a completely different principle of action. Such measuring devices use pulsed propagation of ultrasonic waves. Based on the characteristics of the translation of streams and reflection, the electronic filling makes a conclusion about the thickness of the coating.

Ultrasound devices are considered the most accurate - their error is at the level of 1%. The universality of their application is also noted. Car paint, floor coverings, special protective shells of structures and process equipment - these and other layers allow you to assess the depth of this device.

Thickness gauge of paint coating of ultrasonic type is the most expensive. But the high price tag is also compensated by the inclusion of the newest options, which are rarely supplied even with advanced magnetic and vortex counterparts.

Preparing the device for operation

Perform the measurement operation qualitatively and with optimum accuracy will help both the test of the device itself, and preparation for the survey of the target surface. As for the thickness gauge, it should be in good condition, have sufficient charge and the whole body.

Usually experienced masters use special samples for the evaluation of the correctness of the operation of such devices, the thickness of which is already known. Their test check allows you to assess how ready the thickness gauge of the paintwork is ready for use.

How to use the device for the test? Usually, modern models provide for special operating formats, which also presuppose automatic diagnostics and calibration. To do this, it is enough to put the device in the appropriate mode. Then you can proceed to clear the place for further use of the device.

Instruction for work with a thickness gauge

Management is realized through the menu. The working body is the sensor, which must first be brought to the surface under investigation. Then the button for activating the measurement function is pressed. Usually a full measurement is made in a few seconds, although this interval may last longer depending on the operating conditions.

High-tech professional models also offer many additional features - for example, based on the results of several measurements at different sites, the operator can automatically calculate the average depth.

In the question of how to use a thickness gauge of paint coatings of cars, not the last value is the type of metal. Usually black and colored surfaces are separated. Therefore, initially using the same menu, you should set the appropriate mode of the device - this will increase the accuracy of the measurement.

Manufacturers and prices

The most qualitative measurements make it possible to produce specialized equipment. Such models, in particular, are offered by ADA, CONDTROL and Testboy. However, the cost of such products can reach 20-30 thousand rubles. And some professional modifications are estimated at 50 thousand.

If you need an inexpensive, but high-quality thickness gauge of car paintwork, you can contact the ETARI and Megion families. Devices from these manufacturers are characterized by average accuracy, but this is sufficient for work in domestic conditions. You can buy models from this segment for 5-7 thousand.

How to choose a thickness gauge of a paint and varnish covering?

The choice should be based on the goals that the device faces. Again, for use in the household, it is quite possible to limit the budget device that works with coatings up to 1000 microns thick. More productive and accurate models justify themselves in professional spheres, where the correction for external conditions is also made.

In such cases, the thickness gauge of the paint and varnish is selected and oriented to the design characteristics of the device. For example, in the construction industry, the tool body must be protected from mechanical damage, and outdoor operation also requires the presence of a water repellent coating.

Additional functionality - what to consider?

Multifunctional models also offer users the ability to memorize measurement metrics, automatic shutdown when idle and some mathematical calculations. The latter function is more often used when performing complex operations for a general assessment of the state of a particular surface or a group of structures.

The presence of indicators should also be taken into account if a professional thickness gauge of paint and varnish is chosen. How to choose the device with this function? It depends on the nature of the application. For example, in the long-term use processes, the presence of a battery indicator will be important, and some models will also signal excessive moisture values, which will not allow obtaining correct data.

Conclusion

Modern metrological equipment differs markedly from devices that were used even a few years ago. The principles of operation do not change significantly, however, the methods of controlling functions and ergonomics have undergone many improvements. This allowed the customer to get not only an accurate, but also easy-to-use thickness gauge of paint and varnish.

The best representative of this class is invariably characterized by a comfortable body, a clear menu and the presence of automatic options. Such characteristics are optimally revealed by the creators of ADA and Testboy devices. At the same time, they pay attention to working qualities, regularly increasing the accuracy of measurements.