MEASURING FILM THICKNESS IN THE FIELD

Measuring coating thickness is an important procedure when controlling the application of coatings to metal substrates for corrosion protection. Portable, low-cost coating thickness gauges have made field measurement of coating thickness practical. Therefore, regular and routine checks of coating thickness can now be made during the preparation and construction of steel work and throughout the life of the structure. This article explores reasons for measuring coating thickness, the types of equipment used, standards that apply to the use of coating thickness gauges, the keys to successful coating thickness measurement in the field, and practical hints for users of thickness gauges.