Reduce risk and maintain compliance with our specialist risk management services.
We’re proud to be a leading provider of complete life cycle risk management solutions. From ensuring asset safety and legal compliance with our thorough engineering inspections to driving operational efficiency with our specialist non-destructive testing services, (and much more in between), we’re proud of the long-lasting partnerships we have formed with our customers over the last 160 years, based on the value of our solutions.
Coating Finish Testing
Metal components and products can benefit from a wide range of coatings that serve as a shield against corrosion and provide protection. Among the options available are Zinc Plating, Paint Systems, and Powder Coatings.
Coatings play a crucial role in safeguarding various components used in industries and businesses. Whether it’s fasteners and metals used in subsea operations or automotive parts, these coatings act as a protective barrier, shielding them from the harsh conditions they encounter during service.
The quality of the coating is of utmost importance as it prevents corrosion and ensures the longevity of the components. By analysing the results of coating finish testing, you can gain valuable insights into whether the correct thickness has been applied to your product, and understanding if your product meets the required specifications or standards.
Coating finish testing involves evaluating the quality, performance, and characteristics of applied coatings on surfaces. This type of testing is essential for ensuring that coatings meet specified standards, adhere properly to the sample or material, and provide the desired protective and aesthetic properties. Various tests are conducted to assess the durability, adhesion, appearance, and functionality of coatings. The choice of tests depends on the type of coating, the intended application, and industry standards or specifications.
Enhance your product's durability with coating finish testing
Get in touch today! Get in touch today! Get in touch today!Our Coating Finish Tests
Coating Thickness (Coating Meter)
Coating thickness testing is a crucial quality control measure to ensure that applied coatings meet specified standards and provide the intended protective properties. This testing involves measuring the thickness of a coating on a substrate, and it is particularly important for applications where the coating’s thickness directly influences its performance.
Accurate coating thickness testing is essential to prevent issues such as inadequate protection due to insufficient thickness or problems related to excessive coating thickness, such as cracking or poor adhesion. The specific testing method chosen will depend on factors such as the type of coating, substrate material, and industry standards.
Coating Weight Mass
Coating weight mass testing is a method used to measure the mass or weight of a coating applied to a substrate. This testing is crucial in industries where precise control over the amount of coating is essential for achieving desired performance characteristics. Here are some key aspects of coating weight mass testing:
Accurate coating weight mass testing helps ensure that coatings provide the intended benefits, such as corrosion resistance, adhesion, and durability. The choice of testing method depends on factors such as the type of coating, substrate material, and industry requirements.
The coating weight mass test is mostly performed on flat sheet products of zinc plating and alloys, as set out in BS EN 10346:2015 for triple spot test or a single spot test, which gives our customers the results of the total coating mass of both sides of the product in g/m².
Coating Thickness (Microscopical)
Our Metallurgy Department can analyse coating thickness microscopically which will measure the thickness surrounding coated material.
Coating thickness microscopic testing involves using a microscope to examine the cross-section of a coated sample to determine the thickness and characteristics of the coating. This method allows for a detailed analysis of the coating’s structure, including layer thickness, uniformity, adhesion to the substrate, and potential defects. Here are key aspects of coating thickness microscopic testing:
Coating thickness microscopic testing is particularly valuable for research and development, quality control, and troubleshooting coating-related issues. It allows for a detailed examination of coating properties that may not be apparent through other testing methods. The choice of microscopic technique depends on the specific requirements of the analysis and the available equipment.
We have two methods for performing these types of tests:
- If the coating on the metal is visible, we use a microscope to measure the thickness.
- If the coating is not visible or requires trace thickness measurements (where the thickness might be less than 1 micron or 1000th of a millimetre), we can use SEM Analysis to measure the coating
Coating Adhesion
Coating adhesion testing comes in many forms and is used to assess the coating adherence of the coated products on metallic substrate.
This can be used on painted or coated products on a metallic substrate and used in accordance with salt spray testing or humidity testing, or as received samples.
Coating adhesion testing is a critical evaluation method used to assess the bond strength between a coating and the substrate. Adequate adhesion is essential for ensuring the coating’s durability, performance, and longevity. Various methods are employed to measure adhesion, and the choice of method depends on factors such as the type of coating, substrate material, and industry standards.
Using a scribing tool or knife, coating adhesion testing help our customers to determine whether the correct thickness has been applied for the products, and that they meet their required standards.
We work to the following standards: BS EN ISO 2409, ASTM D1654 and ASTM B571
It’s important to note that the appropriateness of a particular adhesion testing method depends on factors such as the coating type, substrate material, and industry standards. The results of adhesion testing help ensure that coatings adhere securely to substrates and perform effectively in real-world conditions.
Why Choose Us?
35,000 satisfied customers
We've built a strong reputation for providing exceptional service to over 35,000 satisfied customers from diverse industries. Our unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction has resulted in long-standing partnerships and unwavering trust.
Accredited Assurance
You can be confident that our services will be conducted to the highest standards, as we hold a number of accreditations that demonstrate our commitment to quality.
Bespoke solutions
We work closely with our customers to understand their specific needs and to develop customised solutions that meet their compliance requirements, ensuring that their exams are carried out smoothly and efficiently.
Sectors we work with
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