Below are questions frequently asked by our customers and partners about GAO Tek’s coating and material thickness gauges. They are further classified by their features aircraft, automotive, auto power-off function, two point calibration, data logging, handheld, high precision, multiple mode, non-destructive, non-magnetic, rugged, ultrasonic, wide measurement range, wired, and wireless.

If you have any questions about our products or want to place an order, our technical experts can help you. Please fill out this form: https://gaotek.com/ask-an-expert/

or email us at sales@gaotek.com


What are coating and material thickness gauges, and why are they essential?

A coating and material thickness gauge is a device designed to measure the thickness of coatings on surfaces or the thickness of various materials. It is essential for quality control, ensuring compliance with specifications, and preventing corrosion.

 

How does coating and material thickness gauge work?

Our gauge uses various technologies such as magnetic induction or eddy current to measure coating thickness. The gauge emits a signal, and the response received allows us to determine the thickness of the coating or material.

 

What types of coatings can gauge measure?

GAO Tek’s gauge is versatile and can measure a wide range of coatings, including paint, varnish, and other protective layers on metals or non-metallic substrates.

 

Can the gauge measure material thickness on different substrates?

Yes, our coating and material thickness gauge is designed to measure material thickness on both metallic and non-metallic substrates, providing flexibility for various applications.

Why is it important to measure coating thickness?

Accurate coating thickness measurement is crucial for ensuring product quality, durability, and adherence to industry standards. It helps prevent issues like corrosion and ensures the longevity of coated surfaces.

 

Can the gauge measure coating thickness on irregular surfaces?

Yes, our gauge is equipped with features to accommodate irregular surfaces. Advanced models often include automatic substrate recognition and can adapt to different surface profiles.

 

Is calibration required for coating and material thickness gauge?

Yes, regular calibration is essential to maintain the accuracy of the gauge. GAO Tek provides guidelines for calibration, and we offer calibration services to ensure the continued reliability of our gauges.

 

How precise are coating and material thickness gauges?

Our gauges are designed for high precision, with accuracy levels specified in the product documentation. Calibration and proper usage contribute to maintaining the desired level of precision.

 

Can the gauge measure multiple layers of coating?

Yes, some models of GAO Tek gauge are equipped to measure multiple layers of coating, providing detailed information about each layer’s thickness.

 

Are coating thickness gauges portable?

Yes, we offer portable and handheld coating thickness gauges for convenient and on-the-go measurements. These devices are lightweight and easy to use.

 

Can the gauge be used for non-destructive testing?

Yes, our coating and material thickness gauge uses non-destructive testing methods, allowing users to measure thickness without causing any damage to the coated surface or material.

 

What is the maximum thickness range that the gauge can measure?

The maximum thickness range varies by model. We provide specifications for each gauge, indicating the range it can effectively measure.

 

Can gauge be used in extreme environmental conditions?

Yes, our designs have some gauges to withstand harsh environmental conditions, including extreme temperatures and humidity, making them suitable for a wide range of industries.

 

Are software and data analysis tools provided with coating and material thickness gauges?

Yes, GAO Tek provides user-friendly software for data analysis and reporting. This allows users to manage and interpret measurement data efficiently.

 

How can I get technical support for coating and material thickness gauges?

GAO Tek offers technical support through our customer service channels, including phone support and online assistance. Additionally, product documentation and training materials are available to help users make the most of our gauges.

 

What are the applications of coating and material thickness gauges?

  • Automotive Industry: Measurement of paint thickness on car bodies for quality control in and refinishing processes.
  • Aerospace Industry: Inspection of coatings on aircraft components to ensure structural integrity and corrosion resistance.
  • Construction: Checking the thickness of protective coatings on steel structures to prevent corrosion and ensure durability.
  • Manufacturing: Quality control in the production of metal and plastic components to ensure compliance with specifications.
  • Marine Industry: Measurement of anti-corrosion coatings on ship hulls and maritime structures.
  • Oil and Gas: Monitoring and maintaining the integrity of pipelines by measuring the thickness of protective coatings.
  • Electronics Industry: Checking the thickness of coatings on printed circuit boards (PCBs) for insulation and protection.
  • Bridge Inspection: Assessment of protective coatings on bridges to prevent corrosion and maintain structural integrity.
  • Mining Industry: Measurement of protective coatings on mining equipment and infrastructure.
  • Railway Industry: Inspection of coatings on train components to prevent corrosion and ensure safety.
  • Chemical Processing Plants: Monitoring coatings on tanks and vessels to resist corrosion from chemical exposure.
  • Power Generation: Checking the thickness of coatings on power plant components to prevent corrosion and maintain efficiency.
  • Metal Fabrication: Quality control of metal products by measuring coating thickness.
  • Plating Industry: Monitoring the thickness of plated coatings on various substrates.
  • Civil Engineering: Assessing the thickness of protective coatings on infrastructure such as bridges, tunnels, and dams.
  • Automated Manufacturing: Integration into automated processes to ensure consistent coating thickness in mass production.
  • Corrosion Protection: Monitoring coatings on structures in corrosive environments to prevent degradation.
  • Nuclear Industry: Measurement of coatings on components in nuclear facilities for safety and durability.
  • Historical Preservation: Assessment of coatings on historical artifacts and structures to preserve cultural heritage.
  • Coating Research and Development: Research and development of new coatings by measuring and analyzing their thickness and performance

 

What U.S. regulations do GAO Tek coating and material thickness gauge comply or help customers to comply?

  • Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA): While OSHA doesn’t have specific regulations for coating and material thickness gauges, they set standards for workplace safety. Employers using these gauges should adhere to OSHA regulations to ensure a safe working environment.
  • Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): Industries using coating and material thickness gauges may be subject to environmental regulations, especially if the coatings involve hazardous materials. Compliance with EPA regulations, such as those related to air and water quality, may be necessary.
  • National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH): NIOSH provides guidelines and recommendations for occupational safety. Employers should follow NIOSH recommendations to protect workers who use coating and material thickness gauges.
  • ASTM International Standards: The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) develops and publishes standards for various materials, products, and testing methods. Relevant ASTM standards for coating thickness measurement and materials testing may be applicable.
  • Industry-Specific Standards: Different industries may have specific standards and regulations related to coating thickness and material testing. For example, the automotive, aerospace, and construction industries may have industry-specific standards.
  • FDA Regulations (if applicable): If coating and material thickness gauges are used in industries related to medical devices or pharmaceuticals, compliance with the regulations of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) may be necessary.
  • Calibration Standards: Compliance with calibration standards is essential for ensuring the accuracy of coating and material thickness measurements. Instruments should be regularly calibrated according to relevant standards.

 

What Canadian regulations do GAO Tek coating and material thickness gauges comply or help customers to comply?

  • Occupational Health and Safety Regulations: Work involving structural coating and material thickness gauges may fall under the jurisdiction of provincial or territorial occupational health and safety regulations. These regulations outline safety requirements in the workplace.
  • Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA): If coatings involve substances considered “toxic” under CEPA, specific regulations may apply. Compliance with environmental regulations, especially those related to air and water quality, may be necessary.
  • Canadian Standards Association (CSA) Standards: CSA develops standards for various industries, including construction and materials testing. Relevant CSA standards for structural coating and material thickness measurement may be applicable.
  • Transport Canada Regulations: If structural coatings are applied in transportation sectors (e.g., aviation, marine), regulations from Transport Canada may apply. These regulations are designed to ensure safety and compliance in transportation-related activities.
  • Industry-Specific Standards: Different industries may have specific standards and regulations related to coating thickness and material testing. For example, the construction industry may have standards set by relevant authorities or industry associations.
  • Calibration Standards: Compliance with calibration standards is essential for ensuring the accuracy of structural coating and material thickness measurements. Instruments should be regularly calibrated according to relevant standards.
  • Health Canada Regulations (if applicable): If structural coatings involve materials that are subject to Health Canada regulations (e.g., in the case of medical devices), compliance with the appropriate regulations may be necessary.

 

What international standards do GAO Tek coating and material thickness gauges comply or help customers to comply?

  • ISO 2178:2016 – Non-magnetic coatings on magnetic substrates – Measurement of coating thickness – Magnetic method: This standard specifies the magnetic method for the measurement of the thickness of non-magnetic coatings on magnetic substrates.
  • ISO 2360:2017 – Non-conductive coatings on non-magnetic electrically conductive basis materials – Measurement of coating thickness – Eddy current method: This standard outlines the eddy current method for measuring the thickness of non-conductive coatings on electrically conductive substrates.
  • ASTM D1400-20 – Standard Test Method for Non-destructive Measurement of Dry Film Thickness of Nonconductive Coatings Applied to a Nonferrous Metal Base: ASTM International provides standards for various industries, and this specific standard addresses the non-destructive measurement of dry film thickness on nonferrous metal substrates.
  • ASTM D7091-20 – Standard Practice for Non-destructive Measurement of Dry Film Thickness of Nonmagnetic Coatings Applied to Ferrous Metals and Nonmagnetic, Nonconductive Coatings Applied to Non-Ferrous Metals: Another ASTM standard addresses the non-destructive measurement of dry film thickness on both ferrous and non-ferrous metals.
  • ISO 2808:2019 – Paints and varnishes – Determination of film thickness: This standard provides general guidelines for determining the film thickness of paints and varnishes.
  • ISO 19840:2017 – Paints and varnishes – Corrosion protection of steel structures by protective paint systems – Measurement of, and acceptance criteria for, the thickness of dry films on rough surfaces: This standard is specific to the corrosion protection of steel structures and includes measurement and acceptance criteria for dry film thickness on rough surfaces.
  • ISO 2801:2018 – Metallic coatings on metallic substrates – Electrodeposited and chemically deposited coatings – Review of methods available for testing adhesion: While not directly related to thickness measurement, adhesion is an important aspect of coatings. These standards review the method for testing the adhesion of metallic coatings.

What alternative names does a coating and material thickness gauge have?

The alternative names of coating and material thickness gauges are thickness measurement device, surface coating gauge, paint thickness meter, material thickness analyzer, film thickness tester, non-destructive thickness tester, ultrasonic thickness measurement device, eddy current coating gauge, magnetic film thickness meter, coating depth gauge, quality assurance thickness device, corrosion prevention gauge, substrate thickness tester, surface profile gauge, plating thickness analyzer, non-metallic coating meter, material inspection gauge, film build measurement device, protective coating thickness gauge, and thickness tool.

 

What coating and material thickness gauges does GAO Tek have?

Here is the link for the entire coating and material thickness gauges category from GAO Tek:

https://gaotek.com/category/structural-testers/material-thickness-gauges/

Coating and material thickness gauges are further organized by feature aircraft, automotive, auto power-off function, two point calibration, data logging, handheld, high precision, modes, non-destructive, non-magnetic, rugged, ultrasonic, wide measurement range, wired, and wireless.

 

How much time does GAO Tek take to ship to a U.S. location?

GAO Tek ships overnight to anywhere on the continental U.S. from one of its North American facilities.

 

How much time does GAO Tek take to ship to a Canadian location?

GAO Tek ships overnight to anywhere in continental Canada from one of its North American facilities.