THICKNESS GAUGE

What is the Elcometer Thickness Gauge and why choose it?

The Elcometer thickness gauge range (Elcometer 456 independent and integrated coating thickness meters) is designed for fast, accurate measurement of dry film thickness (DFT) on metallic substrates. With interchangeable probes, wireless data transfer and a robust IP64-rated housing, it delivers repeatable and reproducible readings on ferrous, non-ferrous and dual FNF substrates in both field and production environments.

Depending on the model and probe, the Elcometer thickness gauge measures coatings up to 31mm (1,220mils) on metal, stores up to 150,000 readings in 2,500 batches and provides live statistics and graphical review on a high-visibility 2.4" colour display.

Main features

• Wide measuring range: measures coating thickness on metallic substrates from very thin films up to 13mm (500mils) with integrated probes and up to 31mm (1,220mils) with separate probes, depending on the selected scale and probe.
• Multiple probe types: supports ferrous (F), non-ferrous (N) and dual FNF probes, including straight, mini, right-angle, telescopic, waterproof, soft-coating and thick-coating probes.
• Interchangeable probes: all Elcometer 456 probes are fully interchangeable and available in several designs and scale ranges to match specific applications.
• Fast reading rate: more than 70 readings per minute, and more than 140 readings per minute when using an Escan probe in automatic repeat mode.
• Escan probe capability (Model T): scan mode and automatic repeat mode for rapid inspection of large coated areas while maintaining accuracy.
• High-contrast colour display: 2.4" (6cm) TFT colour screen, scratch and solvent resistant, with permanent backlight and automatic screen rotation (0°, 90°, 180°, 270°).
• User-definable view: up to 8 on-screen statistics including number of readings, mean, standard deviation, maximum, minimum, coefficient of variation and Elcometer Index Value (EIV) on compatible models.
• Robust industrial design: impact-resistant, dust and water resistant to IP64, with large, responsive keys and ergonomic housing for continuous use.
• Stable measurements: provides stable readings even when ambient temperature changes.
• Advanced statistics and limits (Model S and T): high/low limits with audible and visual alarms, over/under-limit indications and live trend graphs in batch mode.
• Normative support: predefined calibration and measurement methods for ISO, SSPC PA2, Swedish and Australian standards on compatible models.
• Data storage: memory for up to 150,000 readings in up to 2,500 batches (depending on model); up to 1,500 readings on Model S and the last 5 readings on Model B.
• Wireless and USB data output: USB data transfer as standard; Bluetooth connection to PCs, Android and iOS devices on selected models.
• Software integration: compatible with ElcoMaster software for data management, reporting and firmware upgrades via USB.
• Flexible calibration options: factory, 2-point (for smooth and rough surfaces), 1-point zero calibration and zero offset (for ISO 19840 compliance on selected models).
• Menu in multiple languages: simple menu structure available in more than 30 languages.
• Energy efficiency: up to 24 hours of continuous use taking one reading per second, powered by two AA batteries (alkaline or rechargeable).
• Proven quality: supplied with a test certificate and backed by a manufacturer warranty of up to 2 years for the gauge (1 year standard, extendable) and 1 year for probes.

Technical specifications

Measurement performance

• Substrates: metallic substrates; ferrous (F), non-ferrous (N) and dual FNF (automatic substrate recognition on FNF).
• Measuring range, separate probes: 0–31mm (0–1,220mils), depending on probe scale.
• Measuring range, integrated gauges:
  • Scale 1: 0–1,500µm (0–60mils)
  • Scale 2: 0–5mm (0–200mils)
  • Scale 3: 0–13mm (0–500mils)
• Accuracy (typical, depending on scale and probe):
  • Scale 0.5: ±1–3% or ±2.5µm (±0.1mil)
  • Scale 1: ±1–3% or ±2.5µm (±0.1mil)
  • Scale 2: ±1–3% or ±20µm (±1.0mil)
  • Scale 3: ±1–3% or ±50µm (±2.0mils)
  • Scale 6: ±1–3% or ±100µm (±4.0mils)
  • Scale 7: ±1–3% or ±100µm (±4.0mils)
• Resolution (examples):
  • Down to 0.1µm from 0–100µm on fine scales
  • Down to 0.01mil from 0–5mils on fine scales
  • Coarser steps at higher thicknesses as per each scale definition
• Reading rate: >70 readings per minute; >140 readings per minute with Escan probe in automatic repeat mode (Model T).

Gauge models and memory

• Models available: B, S and T, with separate or integrated probes.
• Calibration memory type:
  • Model B: gauge (m)
  • Model S and T: gauge and batch (ml)
• Number of batches:
  • Model B: 1 batch with unique calibration
  • Model S and T: up to 2,500 batches
• Gauge memory capacity:
  • Model B: last 5 readings
  • Model S: up to 1,500 readings
  • Model T: up to 150,000 readings
• Calibration memories (Model T): 3 programmable calibration memories.

Display and user interface

• Display: 2.4" (6cm) QVGA TFT colour display, 320 × 240 pixels.
• Backlight: permanent backlight with emergency illumination mode.
• Screen rotation: automatic rotation to 0°, 90°, 180° or 270°.
• Light sensor: automatic brightness adjustment.
• Controls: large, responsive keys; tap or knock to wake.
• On-screen statistics: number of readings, mean, standard deviation, maximum, minimum, coefficient of variation (CV%) and Elcometer Index Value (EIV) on compatible models.

Mechanical and environmental

• Ingress protection: dust, water and impact resistant; equivalent to IP64.
• Operating temperature: -10 to 50°C (14 to 122°F).
• Gauge dimensions (H × W × D): 141 × 73 × 37mm (5.55 × 2.87 × 1.46").
• Weight with batteries:
  • Independent gauge: 161g (5.68oz)
  • Integrated gauge: 156g (5.50oz)

Power and connectivity

• Power supply: 2 × AA batteries (alkaline or rechargeable).
• Battery life: approximately 24 hours of continuous use taking one reading per second (with default settings and lithium batteries; varies with alkaline or rechargeable batteries).
• USB: USB power input via PC and USB data transfer.
• Bluetooth: Bluetooth connection to PC, Android and iOS devices on selected models.
• Firmware update: via ElcoMaster software (internet connection required).

Probes and accessories (selection)

• Probe designs:
  • Standard straight probes
  • Mini probes for difficult-to-access areas and edges
  • Right-angle and 45° angled probes
  • Telescopic probes for remote or elevated areas
  • Soft coating probes for large areas and soft materials (HVCA approved)
  • Anodising probes (washable, chemical-resistant)
  • Waterproof probes sealed for underwater use with diving gloves
  • Thick coating probes for coatings up to 31mm
  • Escan probes (standard and roller-bearing versions)
  • Integral PINIP probes that turn an independent gauge into an integrated unit
  • Reinforced cable probes with armoured cable
• Probe operating temperatures:
  • Standard Elcometer probes: up to 80°C (176°F) substrate temperature
  • Separate ferrous probes: up to 150°C (300°F) substrate temperature
  • Hi-Temperature PINIP probes: up to 250°C (480°F) substrate temperature
• Probe placement jig: optional jig for highly repeatable measurements on small or complex components, compatible with straight scale 1 and 2 probes and selected Elcometer 355 probes.
• Mechanical accessories: Jumbo handle for precise placement on flat/curved surfaces, V-probe adapter for medium and large diameter pipes, replacement Escan end caps and roller caps.
• Data output controller: optional RS232 data output controller for integration into automated production lines.
• Calibration foils and zero plates: Elcometer 990 precision foils and zero test plates for creating calibration standards when uncoated substrate is not available.

Standards

• Standards compliance (selection): AS 2331.1.4, AS 3894.3-B, AS/NZS 1580.108.1, ASTM B244, ASTM B499, ASTM D1186-B, ASTM D1400, ASTM D7091, ASTM E376, ASTM G12, BS 3900-C5-6B, BS 3900-C5-6A, BS 5411-11, BS 5411-3, BS 5599, DIN 50981, DIN 50984, ECCA T1, EN 13523-1, IMO MSC.215(82), IMO MSC.244(83), ISO 1461, ISO 19840, ISO 2063, ISO 2178, ISO 2360, ISO 2808-6A, ISO 2808-6B, ISO 2808-7C, ISO 2808-7D, ISO 2808-12, JIS K5600-1-7, NF T30-124, SS 184159, SSPC PA 2, US Navy PPI 63101-000, US Navy NSI 009-32.

Applications and use cases

• Industrial coating inspection: rapid DFT checks on coated steel structures, tanks, bridges and construction components, including rough and curved surfaces.
• Production line quality control: continuous monitoring of coating thickness on metallic parts; when combined with the data output controller, readings can trigger pass/fail criteria in automated lines.
• Marine and shipbuilding: inspection according to standards such as SSPC PA 2 and IMO PSPC (%>NDFT, %>90 on compatible models).
• Automotive and transport: assessment of coating quality using Elcometer Index Value (EIV) in automotive applications.
• Anodising and chemical environments: thickness measurement of coatings in anodising plants using chemical-resistant anodising probes.
• High-temperature substrates: measurements on hot metallic surfaces within the probe operating temperature limits using high-temperature and Hi-Temperature PINIP probes.
• Underwater and offshore work: DFT measurements underwater with sealed waterproof probes and extended cables.
• Soft and thick coatings: inspection of soft coatings and thick protective linings up to 31mm using dedicated probes.

FAQ

1. What substrates can the Elcometer thickness gauge measure on?

   The gauge measures non-magnetic or non-conductive coatings on metallic substrates, including ferromagnetic (F), non-ferrous (N) and dual FNF substrates with automatic substrate detection on FNF models.

2. What is the maximum coating thickness it can measure?

   With suitable separate probes, the Elcometer thickness gauge can measure coatings up to 31mm (1,220mils) on metallic substrates. Integrated gauges measure up to 13mm (500mils), depending on the selected scale.

3. How many readings can be stored in the gauge?

   Depending on the model, memory ranges from the last 5 readings (Model B) up to 1,500 readings (Model S) and up to 150,000 readings in 2,500 batches (Model T).

4. Does the Elcometer thickness gauge support wireless data transfer?

   Yes. Selected models include Bluetooth connectivity to PCs and Android or iOS devices, as well as USB data transfer.

5. Can I use the gauge with different probes?

   Yes. All Elcometer 456 probes are fully interchangeable. The gauge accepts ferrous, non-ferrous and dual FNF probes in a wide range of designs and scales.

6. Is the gauge suitable for harsh industrial environments?

   Yes. The housing is impact-resistant, dust and water resistant to IP64, with a scratch and solvent resistant colour display and robust keypad.

7. How is calibration performed?

   The gauge offers factory calibration, 2-point calibration for smooth and rough surfaces, 1-point zero calibration and, on selected models, zero offset for ISO 19840 compliance. Calibration foils and zero plates are available as accessories.

8. What is the operating temperature range?

   The gauge operates from -10 to 50°C (14 to 122°F). Probe operating temperature for substrates depends on the probe type, up to 250°C (480°F) for Hi-Temperature PINIP probes.

9. Which standards does the Elcometer thickness gauge support?

   The instrument supports a wide range of international standards, including ISO, ASTM, SSPC PA 2, IMO PSPC and various national standards, as listed in the specifications.

10. What comes in the box?

    Typical packaging includes the gauge, wrist strap, protective case, transport case on selected models, screen protector on selected models, AA batteries, operating instructions, USB cable on selected models, ElcoMaster software on selected models and calibration foils for integrated gauges.

Section 14 – Transport information

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Section 8 – Personal protective measures

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*Contenido generado por IA