English

Elcometer 345

Coating Thickness Gauge

Operating Instructions
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English
Equipment described in these instructions is covered by the following Patents:
FNF UK Patent No: GB2306009B and FNF US Patent No: 5886522
Simple Statistics Patent Applications: UK No. 9903992.7, GmbH No. 19945836.7
This product meets the Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive.
The product is Class B, Group 1 ISM equipment according to CISPR 11
Group 1 ISM product: A product in which there is intentionally generated and/or used conductively coupled radio-
frequency energy which is necessary for the internal functioning of the equipment itself.
Class B product are suitable for use in domestic establishments and in establishments directly connected to a low
voltage power supply network which supplies buildings used for domestic purposes.
and are registered trademarks of Elcometer Limited.
All other trademarks acknowledged.
© Copyright Elcometer Limited. 2009.
All rights reserved. No part of this Document may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored (in a retrieval system
or otherwise) or translated into any language, in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical, magnetic, optical,
manual or otherwise) without the prior written permission of Elcometer Limited.
A copy of this Instruction Manual is available for download on our Website via www.elcometer.com.
Doc No. TMA-0431 Issue 03
Text with Cover No. 20607
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CONTENTS

Section Page

1 About your gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

1.1 Gauge features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.2 Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.3 What the box contains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2 Getting started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.1 Fitting batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.2 Low battery voltage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.3 Fitting the Harness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.4 Connecting the Separate Probe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.5 Switching the gauge on/off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.6 Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.7 Changing units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.8 Key-Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.9 Backlight Operation: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
2.10 Simple Statistics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
2.11 Delete Last Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
3 Quick Operation Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
4 Taking a measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

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5 Calibration adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
5.1 Calibration Adjustment Error . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
5.2 Calibration Adjustment for Smooth Surfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
5.3 Special Calibration Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
5.4 The Correction Value Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
5.5 To Recall The Factory Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
6 Statistical summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
6.1 Statistics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
6.2 Displaying Statistical Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
6.3 Clearing Statistical Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
6.4 Setting The User List For Statistical Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
6.5 Example of Statistical User List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
7 Data Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
8 Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
9 Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
10 Error Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
11 Technical specification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
12 Probes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
13 Spares and accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
14 Related equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

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Thank you for your purchase of this Elcometer 345 Coating Thickness Gauge. Welcome to Elcometer.
Elcometer are world leaders in the design, manufacture and supply of inspection equipment for coatings
and concrete. Our products cover all aspects of coating inspection, from development through application
to post application inspection.
The Elcometer 345 Coating Thickness Gauge is a world beating product. With the purchase of this gauge
you now have access to the worldwide service and support network of Elcometer. For more information visit
our website: www.elcometer.com

1 ABOUT YOUR GAUGE

The Elcometer 345 Coating Thickness Gauge is a hand-held
coating thickness gauge for fast and accurate measurement of the
thickness of coatings on metal substrates.
The gauge is available either with a built-in integral probe or with a
separate probe.
R R

The gauge can be switched to display metric (µm/mm) or imperial

(mils) units of measurement.
Your gauge was calibrated at the factory, however you can adjust Elcometer
the calibration using the set of calibration foils supplied with the 345 with
gauge. Integral
Probe
The Elcometer 345 Coating Thickness Gauge is powered by
internal dry cell batteries.
Elcometer 345 with
Separate Probe

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1.1 GAUGE FEATURES

• User adjustable calibration
• Switchable between metric and imperial units
• Bleep (when valid reading taken)
0 IR
• Infrared data output (to mini-printer) R

• Simple Statistics
1.2 STANDARDS
The Elcometer 345 can be used in accordance with the following National and
International Standards, ASTM B 499, ASTM D 1186-B, ASTM G 12, BS 3900 (C5), BS 5411 (11), DIN 50981, IMO
MCS.215 (82/84), IMO MSC.244(83), ISO 1461, ISO 2063, IS0 2808-7C, ISO 2808-12, ISO 19840, NF T30-124, SSPC-
PA2 (2004).
For IMO, PSPCa, the thickness coating, should be measured and recorded. Your Elcometer 345 can be
used for this.
1.3 WHAT THE BOX CONTAINS
• Elcometer 345 Coating Thickness Gauge with batteries fitted
• Set of calibration foils
• Neck harness
• Carrying case
• Operating instructions

a. International Marine Organisation, Performance Standard for Protective Coatings.

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The Elcometer 345 Coating Thickness Gauge is packed in a cardboard and foam package. Please ensure
that this packaging is disposed of in an environmentally sensitive manner. Consult your local Environmental
Authority for further guidance.
To maximise the benefits of your new Elcometer 345 Coating Thickness Gauge please take some time to read
these Operating Instructions. Do not hesitate to contact Elcometer or your Elcometer supplier if you have any
questions.

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2 GETTING STARTED
Note: Before you use your gauge for the first time, remove the paper strip from the battery compartment.

2.1 FITTING BATTERIES

The Elcometer 345 may be used with dry cell batteries or rechargeable batteries. 2 x LR03 (AAA) alkaline
batteries are supplied with the gauge. To fit or replace batteries:
1. Switch off the gauge.
2. Lift off battery compartment cover at rear of gauge.
3. Place batteries in the battery clips ensuring correct polarity.
4. Replace battery compartment cover.

Note: Remove the batteries from the gauge if it is to remain unused

for a long period of time. This will prevent damage to the gauge in
the event of malfunction of the batteries.

2.2 LOW BATTERY VOLTAGE

When the battery voltage is low the battery symbol illuminates on
the display. The gauge will still function but new batteries are
recommended.
When the battery symbol flashes and the gauge beeps every ten
seconds, the batteries must be replaced.
When the batteries are exhausted, the gauge will beep three times and then switch off.

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2.3 FITTING THE HARNESS

Your gauge is supplied with a neck harness which should be
threaded through the bracket on the side of the gauge as shown.

2.4 CONNECTING THE SEPARATE PROBE

The Elcometer 345 separate probe gauge has a 4-pin socket at the
base of the gauge. Line up the 2 red marks when inserting the plug.
To disconnect a probe, pull on the outer knurled sleeve of the plug
- do not twist. This will release the lock that prevents the plug from
being pulled out of the socket accidentally.
• Do not operate the Elcometer 345 without a probe connected.
• Do not remove the probe while the instrument is switched on.

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2.5 SWITCHING THE GAUGE ON/OFF

To switch on, press .
Gauges with an integral probe will switch on automatically by placing the probe against a hard surface.
To switch off, press and hold until OFF is displayed.
The gauge will switch off automatically after one minute of inactivity.

2.6 DISPLAY
The display will show the measurement value.
In addition, a number of symbols can appear on the display:

2.7 CHANGING UNITS

To change the units of measurement displayed on the screen
(µm/mm or mils):
With the gauge switched on, press . The symbol on the display will start to flash. Press . The
units will change. To change units again, repeat these steps.

2.8 KEY-LOCK
The gauge is fitted with a ‘Key-Lock’ feature, which is a form of password, to prevent accidental operation
of calibration adjustment - see “Calibration adjustment” on page 16.

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2.9 BACKLIGHT OPERATION:

Elcometer 345 gauges have a backlit display. The backlight is designed for low light operations and can be
turned on and off via the keypad. Turning the backlight off will save battery power.
To toggle the backlight on/off, press and release . The symbol will flash on the display. Press and
release once more. The will stop flashing and the backlight will be toggled on or off.
When switched on, the backlight comes on when a reading is taken and remains on for 3 seconds.

2.10 SIMPLE STATISTICS

This feature is normally switched off when the gauge is dispatched from the factory.
Your gauge can display statistical summary information in a preset sequence. The user can select any value
in any sequence from the list of five values, plus an OFF option - see “Statistical summary” on page 21.

2.11 DELETE LAST READING

This operation will only delete the last reading taken. Previous readings can not be deleted individually.
To delete the last reading from the statistical calculations when the statistics feature is switched on, press
and hold for more than 2 seconds but less than 4 seconds. The display will show dEL. Release
to delete the last reading,
Note: If is held for longer than 4 seconds, dEL will change to OFF. Releasing will switch the
gauge off and the last reading will not be deleted - see “Switching the gauge on/off” on page 10.
Switch on and try again.

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3 QUICK OPERATION GUIDE

separate
gauges 0
Switch on or R

4 seconds
Switch off >>>> >>>>

Metric <=> >>>> µm or mm <=> mil

English

on
bare metal on foil
Calibration
adjustment for >4 seconds
0 4 seconds 0
Smooth R

>>>> >>>> R

>>>> or >>>> to set.

Substrates adjust to foil

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on thin foil
>4 seconds
0
>>>> >>>> >>>> R

>>>> or
Calibration adjust to foil
adjustment for
Rough and on thick foil
Special >4 seconds
Substrates 0
>>>> to set >>>> >>>> R

>>>> or
adjust to foil

>>>> to set.

Set User List >>>> >>>> >>>> keep pressing until first statistic
for Statistical
Values wanted appears, then press to accept. Repeat for all statistics wanted. Press
to set.

View Statistics >>>> etc. to view each statistic

To Clear >>>> >>>> >>>> >>>> to clear, to retain

Statistical Data

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To Turn >>>> >>>> >>>> >>>> until

Statistical Data
‘Off’ >>>> >>>> Stats off

Print Data Align IR’s >>>> >>>>

Output to continue measurements

on
bare metal

0
To Reset R

>>>> to adjust to 10 µm (0.5 mil) [or 100 µm (4.0 mil) for scales F2
Factory
Calibration
and F3] >>>> >>>> >>>> to clear 1 Err and reset factory

calibration.

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4 TAKING A MEASUREMENT
Before starting to take measurements it is good practice to check the performance of the gauge using the
calibration adjustment procedure - see “Calibration adjustment” on page 16.
1. Hold the gauge with the probe pressed
Integral
firmlyb against the surface you are probe
measuring.
0
2. The display will blinkc and then display the
R

coating thickness.
If required, this reading can be adjusted for R

the conditions of the measurement - see

“Calibration adjustment” on page 16.
If the following display appears
F Separate
probe

the value is just greater than the range of

the gauge, or the gauge is out of
calibration.

b. The reading may be inaccurate if the probe is not held flat against the surface.
c. If the display does not blink then the gauge has not recognised that the probe is on the surface, usually because the
coating is much too thick for the range of the gauge.

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5 CALIBRATION ADJUSTMENT
The Elcometer 345 should be adjusted before use, or at least checked to ensure that the calibration
adjustment is correct for the conditions of use.
Calibration adjustment should be carried out with the appropriate probe, on the same type of metal, the
same curvature and similar surface finish as that of the item to be measured. It is best to use an uncoated
item that is similar to the coated item to be tested.
When the gauge is shipped from the factory it comes with a preset calibration. See “To Recall The Factory
Calibration” on page 20 for instructions on how to restore this calibration.

5.1 CALIBRATION ADJUSTMENT ERROR

If an error message 1 Err is displayed during adjustment it indicates that the adjustment has not taken place
correctly. This may be due to incorrect substrate, incorrect values or units, etc. Press to cancel the
error message. This will automatically restore the gauge to the factory calibration setting. Check and repeat
the adjustment procedure. See “To Recall The Factory Calibration” on page 20 for a method to deliberately
reset the factory calibration setting.

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5.2 CALIBRATION ADJUSTMENT FOR SMOOTH SURFACES

Use this calibration adjustment procedure for measurements on smooth, flat surfaces.
Note: The key-lock feature requires the keys used to access these routines to be pressed for 4 seconds
before any response is made. This is to prevent accidental operation.
1. Place the probe on the bare metal, wait for a reading to be displayed. Lift the probe from the surface.
2. Press and hold for 4 seconds to set the display to zero. The bleeper will sound to indicate the
instruction has been accepted.
3. Place the calibration foil closest to the thickness to be measured on the bare
metal surface and take a reading. 0

Note: If the probe is left on the bare substrate or moved quickly to the calibration R

foil the display will show a sequence of three ‘rising’ ‘-’ symbols and sound a
series of bleeps as a warning. The probe must be lifted into free air before taking
a measurement on the calibration foil.
4. Press or for more than 4 seconds to adjust the display to the
calibration foil value, When close to the correct reading, a few quick presses of
or will step to the correct reading. If the statistics feature is switched
on, the display will show one of the statistical values (“Statistical summary” on
page 21). After 4 seconds C appears in the left-hand side of the display and the
value will start to change. The bleeper will sound to indicate that the calibration
routine has been started.
5. When the value in the display is correct, press to accept the new
calibration or wait 7 seconds for the gauge to accept the calibration automatically. The display will blink
then re-display the reading. The bleeper will sound to indicate acceptance of the new calibration.
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6. Confirm that the gauge reads correctly at zero and at the calibration foil value. If required the
calibration adjustment can be repeated to ensure its accuracy.
To re-adjust the gauge, repeat all the steps in Section 5.2.
Note: As well as calibration foils, certified coated standards are available - see “Spares and accessories”
on page 32.

5.3 SPECIAL CALIBRATION ADJUSTMENT

Use this calibration adjustment procedure for measurements on rough surfaces, small diameters, special
steel alloys, thin substrates below 300 µm (0.012"), etc.
Two calibration foils are required; one below the thickness to be measured (the thin foil) and one above (the
thick foil).
Note: In this routine if, after the key-lock feature is operated, 7 seconds elapses without pressing a key or
taking a reading, the gauge will automatically continue to the next step, i.e. the gauge will move from low
calibration CLO to high calibration CH1 or from high calibration to measurement mode.
1. Switch the gauge on and press , the symbol in the display will flash. Press and release to
begin the special calibration sequence. The display will show CLO (= Calibrate Low) and the rough
surface icon will flash at the rate of once per second.
2. Place the chosen thin calibration foil onto the bare metal surface.
3. Repeated measurements can now be taken on this foil and the display will show the accumulated
average of these readings. This is useful when there is significant variation from one reading to the
next, such as would occur on a rough surface or profile. Averaging a number of readings will give a
more stable value and it is this average that should be adjusted for calibration.

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4. Press and hold or for more than 5 seconds to adjust this average to the foil value.
5. Press to accept the low calibration or wait 7 seconds to accept the calibration automatically.
The display will now show CH1 (= Calibrate High).
6. Place the chosen high calibration foil on the bare metal surface and take a number of readings until a
stable average is displayed.
7. Press and hold or for more than 4 seconds to adjust this average to the foil value.
8. Press to accept the calibration or wait 7 seconds for the gauge to accept the calibration
automatically. The display will blink and then re-display the reading. The bleeper will sound 3 times to
indicate that this routine is complete. will stop flashing and will remain visible on the display.
9. Confirm that the average gauge reading on each calibration foil is correct. An intermediate foil
thickness can also be used to confirm the performance over the calibrated range.
The calibration values are stored in the gauge until new values are entered, even when the gauge is
switched off. on the display indicates the special calibration on switch on.
To re-calibrate, repeat the procedure. Re-calibrating using the smooth surface calibration method (see
“Calibration Adjustment for Smooth Surfaces” on page 17) to set zero will remove from the display.

5.4 THE CORRECTION VALUE METHOD

The smooth surface adjustment method (see “Calibration Adjustment for Smooth Surfaces” on page 17)
can be used for blast cleaned surfaces if a correction value is applied to each reading taken on the
roughened surface.

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When coating thickness gauges are adjusted on a smooth surface, readings on a blast cleaned or otherwise
roughened surface will be high and the correction value must be subtracted from the reading to obtain the
thickness of the coating,
The correction value is determined according to the roughness of the surface per ISO 8501, the Surface
Roughness Comparator Elcometer 125. If the roughness of the surface under the coating is unknown a
default correction value of 25 µm (1.0 mil) is subtracted from each reading. For further details see EN19840
'Paints and Varnishes - Corrosion protection of steel structures by protective paint systems - Measurement
and acceptance criteria of the dry film thickness”.

5.5 TO RECALL THE FACTORY CALIBRATION

Set zero in the normal way. Then take a reading on the same bare substrate and adjust the gauge to read
10 µm (0.5 mil). This will cause the gauge to display 1 Err. The factory setting will be recalled automatically
when is pressed to clear the error message.

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6 STATISTICAL SUMMARY

6.1 STATISTICS
The statistics display on the Elcometer 345 shows a preset combination of the five statistical functions which
may be shown on the display in any user defined order by pressing one key. The feature is switched on by
selecting at least one statistical value to be displayed - see “Setting The User List For Statistical Values” on
page 23. The feature is switched off by selecting OFF. The menu from which the list is created is as follows:
• Number of Readings taken
• Mean value of these Readings
• Standard deviation of these Readings
• Highest Reading taken
• Lowest Reading
• OFF (Switches the statistics off.)

6.2 DISPLAYING STATISTICAL VALUES

• To display a statistical value from the normal measurement mode, press and release or .
This will display for 3 seconds either (+) the first statistical value in the user list or (-) the last statistical
value in the user list.
• If or is released within 4 seconds the gauge will display the value for a further 3 seconds
during which time or can be pressed again. If the key is held for more than 5 seconds the
calibration routine is activated.

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If is pressed the gauge displays the next statistical value on the user list for a minimum of 3
seconds.
If is pressed the gauge displays the previous statistical value on the user list for a minimum of 3
seconds.
• To display the rest of the list of values or must be pressed while the current value is on the
display.
• To exit the list press .

STATISTICAL SYMBOLS
= Number of readings
= Mean (Average)
= Standard Deviation
H = Highest reading
L = Lowest reading

6.3 CLEARING STATISTICAL DATA.

• To clear the statistical data when starting a new set of data press >>>> >>>> . The
display will show CLs to indicate “Clear Statistics?”.
• Press to clear statistics memory or press to exit without clearing the statistics memory.
Note: 4 Err is displayed when the memory for statistical values is full.

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6.4 SETTING THE USER LIST FOR STATISTICAL VALUES

• To create a user list press >>>> >>>> . The display will show CLS to indicate 'Clear
Statistics?'
• Press to enter the menu for setting the user list of statistical values. The gauge displays the
symbol of the first Statistics item on the statistics menu with its numerical position in the user list shown
in the top left of the display. If the numeric display is blank then the statistic is not selected in the
current user list. (To exit from the setting menu and retain the current user list press . This returns
the gauge to normal measurement mode.)

DISPLAY SYMBOLS
F

= Number of readings

= Average (Mean)

= Standard Deviation

= Highest reading

Lo = Lowest reading

Of f = Turn statistics off

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• To enter the statistical value displayed at the next available position on the list press . If this is the
first entry then the current user list is deleted and replaced with a new user list and it appears in the
top left of the display. This action also serves to switch the statistics feature on.
• To view the next statistical value on the user list press . Repeat presses of will scroll round
the menu. Press to add the statistic value to the list. Press to exit menu or exit automatically
when all 5 items have been entered.
Selecting OFF and pressing will switch the statistics feature off.

6.5 EXAMPLE OF STATISTICAL USER LIST

To set statistics for Average, Lowest, Highest and Number of readings, in that order:
Press >>>> >>>>

Display will show CLS.

1F

Keep pressing until is displayed, press to accept

2F

Keep pressing until

Lo is displayed, press to accept

3F

Keep pressing until is displayed, press to accept

4F

Keep pressing until is displayed, press to accept

Press . The statistics are now set in this order.

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7 DATA OUTPUT
Your gauge is fitted with an infrared data output feature. This operates with the Infrared Portable Printer -
see “Spares and accessories” on page 32 for sales part number. Ensure the Elcometer 345 is within
500 mm of the printer, and that the Elcometer 345 IR LED is aligned with the IR detector on the printer.

PRINTING
To print the statistical values, press >>>> >>>> . The display will show PrF.
To print these values press >>>> again.
Press to return the gauge to measurement mode.

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8 STORAGE
This gauge incorporates a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD). If the display is heated above 50°C (120°F)
it may be damaged. This can happen if the gauge is left in a car parked in strong sunlight.
Always store the gauge in its carrying pouch when it is not being used.
9 MAINTENANCE
You own one of the finest hand-held coating thickness gauges in the world. If looked after, it will last a
lifetime.
The gauge does not contain any user-serviceable components. In the unlikely event of a fault, the gauge
should be returned to your local Elcometer supplier or directly to Elcometer. The warranty will be invalidated
if the instrument has been opened.
Regular calibration checks are a requirement of quality management procedures e.g. ISO 9000 and other
standards. For gauge checks and certification contact Elcometer or your local Elcometer supplier.
Details of Elcometer offices around the world are given on the outside cover of these Operating Instructions.
Alternatively visit the Elcometer website, www.elcometer.com
PROBES
The probe will wear with repeated use. Probe life depends on the number of measurements taken and the
manner in which readings are taken. To extend probe life, always set the probe down so that it is
perpendicular to the panel surface. Never drag the probe along the surface, as doing so will drastically
reduce the life of the probe.
Replacement of integral probes must be carried out by Elcometer. Separate probes can be fitted by the
user.

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10 ERROR CODES
Press to clear error codes.
Error code Explanation
0 Err Unable to obtain a stable reading. This is either due to a very high electrical noise
environment, beyond emc specification limits, or could indicate a gauge fault.
1 Calibration factors are out of range. Clear the error message and repeat the adjustment
Err
procedure.
2 Err Averaging error.

3 Err No readings taken for average calculation.

4 Statistics memory full.

Err
5 Err Statistics overflow, more than 9,999 readings have been taken. Statistics data must be
cleared (see Section 6.3) before further readings can be taken for statistical analysis.
6 Err Gauge over-range reading.

7 Memory hardware fault. Contact Elcometer or your local Elcometer supplier.

Err
8 Err Gauge is not configured after repair. Contact Elcometer or your local Elcometer supplier.

9 Err The printer is off line, out of paper or printer or cable fault. Correct printer fault or press
to cancel print function.

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11 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
Range:
Accuracy:
Resolution, metric:
Resolution, imperial:
Display:
Operating Temperature:
Dimensions:
Weight (incl. Dry Batteries):
Measurement speed:
0 µm to 1500 µm (0 mil to 60 mil)
± 3% of the reading or ± 2.5 µm (0.1 mil)
whichever is the greater.
± 1% of the reading or ± 2.5 µm (0.1 mil)
whichever is the greater when calibrated close to the thickness to be
measured.
1 µm
Below 20 µm, 0.1 µm
0.1 mil
Below 1 mil, 0.01 mil
Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) 3½ Digits, Character height: 10 mm (0.4")
0°C to 50°C (32°F to 120°F)
56 mm x 24 mm x 120 mm (2.2" x 0.95" x 4.75")
115 gms. (4 oz).
> 40 readings per minute.

Battery Type: 2 x LR03 (AAA), alkalined dry batteries or rechargeablee equivalents

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Battery Life: 30 to 40fhours continuous with alkaline dry batteries (15 000 to 20 000
readings at an average of 8 readings per minute). Battery life is reduced
when using the back light.
Minimum Substrate Thickness: 300 µm (12 mil) unless special adjustment is made - see section 5.3.
Gauges will have reduced range when adjusted for thin substrates.

d. Alkaline batteries must be disposed of carefully to avoid environmental contamination. Please consult your local
environmental authority for information on disposal in your region.
Do not dispose of any batteries in fire.
e. Rechargeable batteries can be used if they are charged outside the gauge.
f. Battery life is reduced to approximately 25% of the dry battery life when using rechargeable batteries. Follow the
instructions provided by the battery manufacturer when charging and disposing of rechargeable batteries.

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12 PROBES
Gauges with serial number TA---- onward are fitted with a new design of probes. The part numbers for
replacements for separate probes are shown in Table 1 on page 31.

Right Angle Probe Telescopic Probe

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Table 1: Probe part numbers

Replacement Original Current

Scale Range Accuracya Resolution
probe typesb probe no. probe no.
F1 0 - 1500 µm ±3% or ±2.5 µm 1 µm F1 Standard T3457286- T34515844
±1% or ±2.5 µmc Below 20 µm, 0.1 µm F1 Right Angle T3457650- T34515845
F1 Telescopic T3457651- T34515846
0 - 60 mil ±3% or ±0.1 mil 0.1 mil
±1% or ±0.1 milc Below 1 mil, 0.01 mil
a. Whichever is the greater
b. Separate probe versions only
c. Whichever is the greater when calibrated close to the thickness to be measured.

Table 2: Probe capabilities

Minimum Minimum Minimum

Probe Type Convex Surface Concave Headroom Sample Cal Foil Valuea
Diameter Surface Radius Diameter
F1 4 mm (0.16") 25 mm (0.98") 85 mm (3.35") 4 mm (0.16") 250 µm (10 mil)
Separate F1 Right Angle 4 mm (0.16") 25 mm (0.98") 25 mm (0.98") 4 mm (0.16") 250 µm (10 mil)
F1 Telescopic 4 mm (0.16") 25 mm (0.98") 30 mm (1.18") 4 mm (0.16") 250 µm (10 mil)
Integral F1 4 mm (0.16") 25 mm (0.98") 122 mm (4.8") 4 mm (0.16") 250 µm (10 mil)
a. This is the recommended maximum calibration foil value to achieve the specified accuracy under these measurement
conditions.

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13 SPARES AND ACCESSORIES

The following spare parts and optional accessories are available from your local Elcometer supplier or direct
from Elcometer.

13.1 CALIBRATION FOIL SETS

Set of µm mils Part number for set

8 foils 12, 25, 50, 125, 175, 250, 500, 1020 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 7, 10, 20, 40 T9904199F
3 foils 25, 250, 1020 1, 10, 40 T9904199G

Individual calibration foils and customised sets are also available. Consult your local Elcometer supplier.

13.2 CALIBRATION CERTIFICATES FOR CALIBRATION FOILS

Certificates traceable to National Standards including UKAS and NIST are available on request.

13.3 TEST CERTIFICATES

A certificate with results of a standard test on known calibration foil values over the full range of the probe.
Order using sales part number TEST-345.

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13.4 COATED THICKNESS STANDARDS INCLUDING CERTIFICATE

Ferrous Standard (4 Values): T995111261

13.5 INFRARED PORTABLE PRINTER

Infrared Portable Printer: T99913877

Thermal Printer Paper: T99913878

13.6 PROBE ADAPTORS

Jumbo Hand Grip: T9997766-

V Adaptor for pipes: T9997381-

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13.7 HOLSTER

Integral Probe Version: T9999516-

Separate Probe Version: T3459515-

13.8 RAINCOAT

Protective gauge covers (pack of 5): T99913537

13.9 WRIST HARNESS

Wrist harness: T99916063

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14 RELATED EQUIPMENT
Elcometer produces a wide range of coating thickness gauges and associated paint inspection equipment.
Users of the Elcometer 345 may also benefit from the following Elcometer products:
• Elcometer 456 Coating Thickness Gauge
• Elcometer 406L Statistical Mini-Glossmeter
For further information contact Elcometer, your Elcometer supplier or visit the Elcometer website,
www.elcometer.com

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15 INDEX
B E O
Backlight 11 Error codes 27 Outputting data 25
Batteries
Fitting 8 F P
Life 29 Factory calibration 20 Print Data Output 14
Low voltage 8 Foils Printer
Type 28 Ordering 32 Infrared 33
Blast cleaned surfaces 19 Printing 25
G Probe
C Connecting 9
Gauge features 6
Calibration adjustment 16 Probes 30
Error 16 Adapters 33
for Rough and Special Substrates
H
Wear of 26
13 Hand grip, Jumbo 33 Protection for gauge 34
Procedure 12 Harness
Rough surfaces 18 Fitting 9 Q
Small diameters 18 Wrist (spare part) 34
Holster (belt) 34 Quick Operation Guide 12
Smooth surfaces 17
Special steel alloys 18
Thin substrates 18 I R
Calibration certificates 32 Imperial units 10 Range
Coated thickness standards Infrared printer 33 Warning 15
Spares 33 Reset 14
Contents of box 6 K
Correction value 19 S
Key-Lock 10
Service 26
D Shims
M
Data output 25 Ordering 32
Delete Last Reading 11 Maintenance 26 Spare parts 32
Display symbols 10 Measurement 15 Standards 6
Metric units 10 Coated thickness 33
Statistics 11, 21

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Clearing 13, 22
Displaying 21
List of 13, 23
Turning off 14
Storage 26
Substrate thickness
Minimum 29
Switching on/off 10

T
Technical specification 28
Test certificates 32
Thin substrates 18

U
Units
Changing 10

V
V Adaptor, for pipes 33

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