Thickness gauge of paint and varnish coating of cars: instruction manual, advice on choosing

The application of a paint layer requires a specialskill from the master, as well as 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 you can determine the parameters of the layer and, if necessary, make the appropriate adjustments.

General information about thickness gauges

Before the determination of the thickness of the paint and varnishcoating was carried out by 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 essentialadvantage. The device allows to cover large areas 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 dubious areas with the traditional mechanical method - especially when it comes to the body of a car. 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 production. 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 mainperformance 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 value, but it is worth paying attention to the measurement error.

Precision devices are characterized bydeviation in the range of 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 andtemperature regime, in which it is planned to use a thickness gauge of paint and varnish coating in one or another modification. Conventional models can work in conditions up to 40 ° C. Another thing is that the same accuracy of measurement can 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,which distinguish the instruments of this segment. This is a magnetic and vortex measurement. Models of the first type operate on the basis of the law, according to which the force of attraction of magnets acts. And this applies to non-metallic surfaces. A 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.

Vortex-type models are supplied with a coil,which is wound with a metal wire. 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 thereby makes it possible to determine the depth of the surveyed layer.

In the question of how to usethickness 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 work process 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 separateniche, because 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 paintworkThe ultrasonic type is also 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 a measurement operation qualitatively and withOptimal accuracy will be assisted by testing the device itself, and preparing 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 to evaluatethe correctness of the operation of such devices is special samples, the thickness of which is already known. Their test check allows you to assess how ready the thickness gauge of paintwork is.

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 with clearing 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 working conditions.

High-tech professional models alsooffer 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 gaugepaint coatings of cars, not the last value has a 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 allowto 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 gaugepaint coatings of cars, you can contact the ETARI and Megion families. Devices from these manufacturers are characterized by average accuracy, but this is sufficient for working 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 thatstand in front of the device. 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 fields, where the correction for external conditions is also made.

In such cases the thickness gauge of paint and varnishcoating 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 offerusers the ability to memorize the measurement, automatic shutdown when idle and some mathematical calculations. The latter function is more often used when performing complex operations for the overall assessment of the state of a particular surface or a group of structures.

The presence of indicators is also worth considering ifthe professional thickness gauge of a paint and varnish covering 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 the battery charge indicator will be important, and some models will also signal excessive moisture levels, which will not allow obtaining correct data.

Conclusion

Modern metrological equipment is noticeablediffers 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 consumer to get not only an accurate, but also easy to use thickness gauge of paintwork.

The best representative of this classcharacterized by a comfortable body in physical handling, 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.