DFT Gauge PosiTest

Select from 2 PosiTest DFT Gauge Dry Film Thickness Options…

1. PosiTest DFT Ferrous, Measures non-magnetic coatings on steel.
2. PosiTest DFT Combo, Measures both non-magnetic coatings on steel AND non-conductive coatings on aluminum, brass, etc. Automatically recognizes the substrate and takes a measurement

Feature

• Fast, repeatable measurements and also 60+ readings per minute
• Ready to measure—no adjustment required for most applications
• Zero or 1 Point Calibration Adjustment for complex applications
• Onscreen averaging for up to 99 readings
• Strong, wear-resistant, ruby-tipped probe
• V-groove in probe for positioning on cylindrical parts
• High contrast color display
• Adjustable display brightness for optimal visibility in any environment
• Auto rotating display with lock to prevent unintended rotations
• Simple, icon based menu
• Handy RESET feature when no zero reference is available
• Mils/microns switchable
• Built-in wrist strap for added convenience and safety
• A year warranty

How to Use Paint Thickness Gauges for Better Automotive Detailing.

What is Automotive Detailing?

Detailing as it relates to paint thickness measurement is the systematic cleaning, rejuvenating, and also protecting of the exterior painted surfaces of a vehicle. The primary purpose for paint detailing is to retain the appearance of newer vehicles or to revitalize older neglected vehicles.

Cleaning is a preparatory step intend to remove dirt, dust, and other loose contaminants in order to allow full inspection of current paint conditions. Rejuvenation refers to the processes use to return a vehicle to its original showroom condition. The extent of rejuvenation is dependent on the customer’s expectations. Protection refers to the maintenance processes such as waxing that are uses to keep the vehicle looking new for as long as possible after detailing.

Simple washing and waxing will not remove many types of surface paint damage; a rejuvenation step . (polishing with an orbital or a more effective high speed polisher) is add before the waxing step. When rejuvenation is require, detailers often polish the top clear coat layer of automotive paints to remove surface damage. Such as fine scratches, scuffs, swirl marks, oxidation, stains, paint over spray, tar, tree sap, acid rain, or water spots. This polishing process is also referred to as finessing.

The Extensive Paint Problems

Extensive paint problems may require the use of several sanding and buffing steps to bring the paint back closer to its original beauty. Automotive manufacturers typically use one of two main types of paint systems in their vehicles. The most common used today is a clear coat system. In the first a thin layer of color is applied, and after that will followed by multiple layers of clear non-pigmented paint. Used less frequently today is a single-stage paint system that consists of the application of multiple layers of pigmented paint. Since most detailing chemicals are designed to work on both paint systems, the paint detailing process does not significantly change based upon the type of paint system.

Why Measure Paint Thickness and Clear Coats?

To ensure consumer value and thus maintain profitability, there are two main considerations when justifying equipment and processes involved in the detailing process. Any added cost must result in improvements in either efficiency or effectiveness. Although it could be argued that a detailer’s ability to take quick readings with a paint thickness gauge? in order to determine the remaining paint thickness ? It is an efficiency benefit, the primary benefit is the increase in effectiveness.

When the polish requirement has been identified it is important to evaluate the paint in surrounding areas. Most factory paint jobs seem to range from 4–7 mils (100–180 microns). Thinner readings indicate that the clear coat is almost entirely already remove. Or in the case of single-stage systems that the primer is about to show through. As represented in the photo above, thicker readings are often an indication that repainting has occurred. When repainting is detecte, the operator has a difficult task in evaluating the suitability (thickness) of the top layer of paint for buffing. No matter how careful the operator, buffing or polishing on thin coatings risk paint damage to the vehicle. When detailing thin coatings or unknown paint layer thickness, an alternative system such as hand polishing may be the only safe option.

For more products detail, related coating inspection instruments and testing tools please contact us.