viscosity, rotational viscosity & surface tension

The extent to which a liquid resists a tendency to flow is defined as viscosity. In the coatings industry, this behaviour is one of the key parameters. Elcometer manufactures and supplies a wide range of viscosity gauges from flow cups and dip cups to rotational and cone and plate viscometers. Flow Cups: The process of flow through an orifice can often be used as a relative measurement and classification of viscosity. This measured kinematic viscosity is generally expressed in seconds of flow time which can be converted into Centistokes using a viscosity disc calculator. Dip Cups: Using the same principle as flow cups, dip cups Frikmar, Zahn, Shell, etc. can be used to provide a quick viscosity measurement on the shop floor or on site. Rotational: Rotational viscometers are used to determine the viscosity of liquids which do not depend solely on temperature and pressure. The behaviour of non-Newtonian liquids can be determined using a range of rotational viscometers in particular the cone and plate viscometer range. Elcometer also offers a range of applicators that also explore the 'viscosity' of a coating, these include: Levelling: NYPC levelling testers are used to determine a coatings ability to level before curing Sagging: sag testers are used to determine the resistance to sag due to gravity

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Elcometer Viscosity Cups (ISO, ASTM, DIN, BS, FORD, AFNOR)

Very easy to use instruments of anodized aluminium with a stainless steel orifice. Viscosity Flow Cups are used for measuring the consistency of paints, varnishes and other similar products.

Elcometer Viscosity Flow Cups (AFNOR, BS, DIN, FORD, ISO)

Very easy to use instruments made of anodized aluminium, with a stainless steel orifice, for measuring the consistency of paints, varnishes and similar products. The measured kinematic viscosity is generally expressed in seconds (s) flow time, which can be converted to Centistokes (cSt) if the Standard stipulates a conversion method. The cups can be supplied separately or with an adjustable stand* which includes a precision level and an overflow glass draw down plate. A flow jacket* (thermojacket) for temperature control is also available. Several ranges are available, according to Standards; from 5 to 5100cSt.

Elcometer FRIKMAR Viscosity Cups with Handle

Thanks to their handles, the Elcometer Dip Cups are very easy to use and performs quick controls on the construction site, in the workshop, or during the manufacturing process.

Elcometer FRIKMAR Viscosity Dip Cups

Thanks to its handle, this cup is very easy to use to perform checks on site or during the manufacturing process. It is ideal for measuring the consistency of paints, varnishes and similar products. The cup is first dipped into the product to be measured, then the contents empty through the orifice. The measured kinematic viscosity is generally expressed in seconds (s) flow time, which can be converted to Centistokes (cSt) if the Standard stipulates a conversion method. Several ranges are available, according to Standards; from 7 to 1100cSt.

Elcometer 2210 Zahn Viscosity Cups

These easy to use Zahn Cups, fabricated out of stainless steel are ideal for quick viscosity measurement of products on site or during production.

Elcometer 2210 Zahn Viscosity Dip Cups

A small, U-shaped cup suspended from a looped wire. This method is ideal for measuring the consistency of paints, varnishes and similar products. Simply dip the cup into the product to be measured, lift it out and measure how long it takes for the contents to empty through the orifice. Five cups with different orifice sizes are available, ranging from 5 to 1840cSt.

Elcometer 2310 Shell Viscosity Cups

Often used in the printing or ink industry, the Sheel Cup is used for quick viscosity measurements on site or during production.

Elcometer 2310 Shell Viscosity Cups

Stainless steel cups for quick measurements on-site or during production. These cups are often used in the printing or ink industry. Simply dip the cup into the product to be measured, lift it out and measure how long it takes for the contents to empty through the orifice. The measured kinematic viscosity is generally expressed in seconds (s) flow time, which can be converted into Centistokes (cSt). Six cups with different orifice sizes are available, ranging from 2 to 1300cSt.

Elcometer 2215 Lory LCH Cup

The Lory Cup is a viscosity cup designed for measurements of thicker products. The cup is first dipped into the product to be measured and the flow time is recorded until the point of the internal needle first appears.

Elcometer 2215 Lory LCH Cup

A conventional cylindrical cup with a needle fixed into the bottom for quick measurements on-site or during production. The cup is first dipped into the product to be measured, then empties through the escape hole. Unlike other viscosity cups, the flow time is measured as soon as the point of the needle appears.

Elcometer 2400 Viscosity Disc

This viscosity calculator is a simple conversion table that allows the viscosity (usually recorded in cSt) and flow times (recorded in seconds) to be compared.

Elcometer 2400 Viscosity Disc

A conversion table that allows the viscosity (in cSt) and flow times of different cups to be compared. Front: No. 4 Cups according to BS, NF, ASTM, DIN and Zahn 2. Back: No. 3-4-5-6 Cups according to ISO and Zahn 3, as well as Gardner Bubble Viscometers.

Elcometer 7300 Digital Stopwatch

A professional high precision stopwatch is required for measuring the flow time of a coating or other product under test with a viscosity cup.

Elcometer 7300 Digital Stopwatch

A professional high precision, digital LCD pocket sized stopwatch for measuring flow time. Features include: Time/calender display: hour, minute, second, month, day, date. Stopwatch: 1/100 second for 30 minutes, 1 second up to 24 hours. 12/24 hour display mode.

Elcometer 2300 Rotational Viscometers

The Elcometer 2300 range of rotational viscometers measures the viscosity of liquids in accordance with several standards. Using a rotational viscometer, the properties of liquids and their resistance to shear or flow can be accurately measured. Available in four model variants, with a large selection of speeds, spindles and accessories, this range ensures determining the viscosity of liquids has never been easier.

Elcometer 2300 Rotational Viscometers

The Elcometer 2300 range of rotational viscometers measures the viscosity of liquids in accordance with several standards. Using a rotational viscometer, the properties of liquids and their resistance to shear or flow can be accurately measured. Available in four model variants, with a large selection of speeds, spindles and accessories, this range ensures determining the viscosity of liquids has never been easier. Accurate, easy to use and reliable: o Easy to use control panel. Clear, backlit LCD display: o Shows viscosity reading in cP or mPa, spindle rotation speed, % torque, sample temperature, auto range, shear rate and shear stress: Quick connect spindles: o Rapid and simple attachment to any of the Elcometer 2300 rotational viscometers. Selectable speeds: o Provides a wide range of viscosity and shear rate measurements. Wide range of spindles and accessories: o Versatile viscometer can test any liquid. RS232 interface: o Allows for data download and complete control of spindle speed via PC on RV2 models. Temperature probe: o Directly measure sample temperature. ViscosityMaster Software: o Powerful yet easy to use software specifically designed to maximise the versatility of the viscometer. Stores data along side associated photographs, test notes and any other information.

Elcometer 2200 Digital Viscometer

This simple to use Rotational Viscometer consists of a spindle and a paddle. The spindle is rotated at 200rpm and the viscosity value is calculated automatically. The Elcometer 2200 is also referred to as a Krebs Viscometer due to one of its units of measurement.

Elcometer 2200 Digital Viscometer

This simple to use rotational viscometer consists of a spindle and paddle. The spindle is rotated at 200rpm and, when the paddle is immersed in the sample coating, the Elcometer 2200 automatically calculates the viscosity value from the power required to maintain the spindle at 200rpm. A Choice of Three Viscosity Ranges A digital display, at the flick of a switch, shows the reading selected in either: Centipoises Krebs Units Grams

The Elcometer 220 can also be fitted with an air purge for use in a hazardous environment.

Elcometer 2410 Viscosity Oils for Calibration

Standard Viscosity Oils are used in order to check your viscosity cup's calibration or to certify it for ISO purposes. These Canon Oils have a specific drain time dependent on the viscosity cup type and the orifice (or cup number) used.

Elcometer 2410 Viscosity Cup Standard Calibration Oils

In order to check a viscosity cup's calibration or to certify it for ISO purposes, it is imperative that viscosity cup standard calibration oils are used. Standard oils have a specified drain time, dependent upon the viscosity cup type (Ford, Shell, Zahn, etc) and the orifice size or cup number used. To check the viscosity cup, use the standard viscosity oils in place of the liquid and measure the drain time. Specific calibration oils can only be used with specific flow and dip cups. Please refer to the table below to establish which oil is required for each cup. All viscosity oils are supplied in litre (1 pint) bottles.

Elcometer 4260 NYPC Levelling Tester

Fitted with 5 pairs of notches of various depths the New York Painting Council Levelling Tester is used to determine a coating's ability to level before curing.

Elcometer 4260 NYPC Levelling Tester

Made of stainless steel with straight scraper fitted with 5 pairs of notches of increasing depth from 25m to 4.06mm (1 to 160mils), the Elcometer 4260 NYPC Levelling Tester is used to determine a coating's ability to level before curing. Once the drawdown has been made on a horizontal, firm surface, leave the coating to cure. Once the coating is dry, identify the thickness at which the pair of film stripes merge.

Elcometer 4270 Sag Tester

Fitted with 10 adjacent notches of increasing clearance, the Sag Tester is used to establish the coatings resistance to sag under gravity.

Elcometer 4270 Sag Tester

Made of stainless steel, the straight scraper has 10 adjacent notches of increasing clearance. The Elcometer 4270 Sag Tester is used to establish the coatings resistance to sag due to gravity. After the product has been spread, the contrast chart is immediately placed in vertical position, with the thinnest film at the top. The thickness at which the strips join indicates the tendency to sag.

Elcometer 4280 NYPC Levelling & Sag Tester

This dual Levelling and Sag Tester combines the Elcometer 4260 and the Elcometer 4270 into one gauge.

Elcometer 4280 NYPC Levelling & Sag Tester

The Elcometer 4280 combines the Elcometer 4260 NYPC Levelling Test with the Sag Test of the Elcometer 4270. This dual gauge is used to assess a coating's levelling characteristics and its resistance to sag due to gravity.

Elcometer 4290 Sag Quadruplex Film Applicator

This film applicator has four spreading edges to form and allows the simultaneous application of several stripes of film of increasing thickness.

Elcometer 4290 Sag Quadruplex Film Applicator

This stainless steel film applicator has 4 spreading edges in the form of a straight scraper each with 4, 6 or 10 adjacent notches (depending on the model) of variable depth. Simultaneously applying several stripes of film of increasing thickness. Ideal for determination of opacity or hiding power.

Elcometer 2280 Matthis Fluidometer

An incredibly simple instrument used to measure the fluidity of a coating.

Elcometer 2280 Matthis Fluidometer

A simple and easy-to-use instrument to measure the fluidity of a coating. The product to be measured is poured into a semispherical cavity of the instrument, which is in the horizontal position. The instrument is then lifted vertically allowing the liquid to flow under gravity, in the groove, which is graduated in mm. The distance it flows after approximately 10 seconds 0.5 seconds, measured with the sand timer provided, indicates the fluidity of the coating.

Elcometer 2290 Daniel Flow Gauge

This simple instrument is used to assess the ability of thick or paste-like materials to flow. Ideal for materials such as paints or printing inks.

Elcometer 2290 Daniel Flow Gauge

This simple instrument is used to assess the ability of thick or paste-like materials such as paints or printing inks to flow. The product is poured into a semi-cylindrical reservoir. When the instrument is lifted vertically, the product runs on a graduated plate, which is fixed perpendicular to the reservoir. The distance covered in a given time is the measure of the fluidity.

Product Categories of Elcometer, Inc.

Computer Software for Finishers Environmental Test Chambers Humidity Cabinets Laboratory Supplies, painting Mixers, Stirrers Oven-Temperature Monitors/Curing Analyzers Painting Equipment for Test Panels pH Meters Spectrophotometers Surface Roughness Measuring Devices Temperature Indicators Temperature Recorders Test Kits, water analysis Testing Equipment, abrasion resistance Testing Equipment, accelerated weathering Testing Equipment, adhesion Testing Equipment, air-motion Testing Equipment, color Testing Equipment, gloss Testing Equipment, high-voltage electrostatic Testing Equipment, impact resistance Testing Equipment, paint film discontinuity Testing Equipment, paint film flexibility Testing Equipment, salt spray Testing Equipment, solution concentration

Testing Equipment, surface cleanliness Testing Equipment, surface tension Testing Equipment, thermal cycling Testing Equipment, thickness of coating Thermometers, pyrometers Transducers, ultrasonic Viscosimeters

Elcometer

A simple instrument for determining the elasticity, adhesion and cracking of dry paint on flat specimens, consisting of a mandrel support which also serves as a test stand. Painted metal sheets, maximum 150mm (5.9") in length x 100mm (3.93") wide are manually and successively bent around mandrels of decreasing diameter until cracks appear

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Elcometer 1615 Variable Impact Tester

This simple to use gauge is ideal for evaluating the resistance of a coating to impact (elongation, cracking or peeling). There are two test methods: either a weight with a hemispherical punch attached falls on a coated metal sheet or a weight falls on to a hemispherical punch which is resting on the coated metal sheet. The Elcometer 1615 Impact Tester comes as one universal assembly with the option of six different kits providing the functionality for various testing methods. The test specimen is fixed into position by the quick release clamp. The weight is lifted to the pre-determined height and can be set by the adjustable collar device. The weight is then released and the resulting deformation observed.

The base unit is common to all tests. Simply select the appropriate kit to meet your requirements.

Graduated tube with engraved markings: o The tube has clearly engraved, graduated markings in both kg-cm and lb-inch to ensure accuracy. Stop collar with adjustable settings: o Ten settings between 2mm and 15mm (0.08 and 0.60") to change the depth of impact when working in accordance with ISO Standards. Integrated bubble level: o Ensuring that the tester is perpendicular for accurate results. Easy fix sample clamp: o The test sample can be secured or released by a simple twist of the clamp handle. Comprehensive range of test kits: o Six different test kits are available containing all the items required to test in accordance with specified Standards.

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Elcometer 355 Standard Coating Thickness Gauge

The unit's large memory stores up to 5,000 readings in batches and data can be output to PC, datalogger or printer as required. A full selection of Probe Modules allows choice for your application. All modules are supplied with calibration foils.

1% Accuracy Rugged Aluminium Case Traceable Thickness Standards ElcoMaster Software Supplied 5,000 reading memory in 25 pre-set batches. Full statistical analysis - mean, standard deviation, number of readings, highest and lowest value. RS232 Printer/PC Output - Serial and Parallel Date and time information

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Elcometer 415 Paint & Powder Coating Thickness Gauge

This easy to use, low cost gauge provides a simple, accurate and reliable way to measure coatings on smooth ferrous (steel) and non-ferrous (aluminium) substrates. This gauge with it's intuitive menu allows you to use it straight out of the box.

Fast and accurate reading rate: o Greater than 60 readings per minute. Large, easy to read display: o The angled, 'enlarged' display is ideal for viewing from all angles. Simple 'zero cal' feature: o Complete with factory calibration reset if no access to the uncoated substrate. Auto switches to Ferrous or Non-Ferrous: o Ideal for measuring paint or powder on both steel and aluminium surfaces. Metric or Imperial measurements: o Readings can be displayed in microns or mils. Bigfoot probe for repeatable results: o Integral probe with V-groove allows accurate positioning on smooth, flat surfaces. Ergonomic design for maximum comfort: o Easy to hold gauge allows for regular daily use. On-screen instructions: o The User is guided through the functions of the gauge - in over 20 languages. Rugged & Reliable: o Built from ABS plastic, this durable gauge is ideal for the paint & powder coating environment

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Elcometer Coating Thickness Gauge

The Elcometer 345 2 Key Gauge, has been specifically designed for the Steel Structures Industry for measuring the coating thickness of structural steel. It can be used to test the wide variety of coatings and coating systems used to on bridges, ships, buildings, etc. The Elcometer 345 SSG comes complete with a one year warranty and has two operating modes:

Standard Mode - The total coating thickness over the steel substrate is displayed "Offset" Mode* - The User can enter an "offset" value, for example, equivalent to the surface roughness (profile), which is then automatically subtracted from the reading before it is displayed.

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Elcometer Digital Moisture Meter

A handy and easy to use instrument. The Elcometer 7420 does not use pins and does not damage the substrate under test. The gauge is placed onto the material to be evaluated and quickly indicates the degree of moisture in concrete fiberglass or wood down to a depth of 3cm (1.2")

High frequency method used. Digital display with moisture/dry comparison scale. No damage to the surface

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Elcometer Protective Coatings Inspection Kits

Elcometer Protective Coatings Inspection Kits The Elcometer range of Protective Coatings Inspection Kits provide all the tools required for onsite inspection of a coating, including surface profile, dewpoint, relative humidity and both wet and dry film thickness. All three kits are available as metric or imperial kits, with or without and Elcometer 456 Digital Coating Thickness Gauge and are invaluable to the operator in the field to ensure the coating is, or has been, applied correctly and is fit for purpose, removing the need for guesswork. Each kit contains a combination of the following Elcometer instruments:

Elcometer 124 Thickness Gauge and Testex Tape: The Elcometer 124 Thickness Gauge is used to measure the peak-to-valley height of a surface profile formed in the Elcometer 122 Testex Tape. Each kit is supplied with a roll of Coarse and X-Coarse Testex Tape. Elcometer 116C Sling Hygrometer: A convenient, self contained instrument with an inbuilt slide rule for the calculation of %RH and dewpoint. Elcometer 212 Digital Pocket Thermometer with Surface Probe: Designed to cope with routine day to day use, the Elcometer 212 takes fast, accurate measurements. Elcometer 224 Digital Surface Profile Gauge: A digital alternative to the Elcometer 124 and Testex Tape, ideal for quality checking the surface profile. The Elcometer 224 S supplied with Standard Kit 3, displays statistical values as readings are taken. The Elcometer 224 T supplied with Top Kit 3, has the advantage of a large built-in memory to accurately record each measurement and offers Bluetooth wireless technology for cable free data transfer. Data can be downloaded to a PC and using ElcoMaster Software, detailed reports can be created in seconds. Elcometer 319/2 Dewpoint Meter: The Elcometer 319/2 has been designed to incorporate all the features required for climate condition monitoring in a single gauge with memory and measurement options which make this one of the most versatile digital dewpoint meters available. Top Kit 3 is supplied complete with a Docking Unit which provides an interface between the gauge and a PC. Used in conjunction with ElcoMaster software readings can be stored and used to create professional reports. Elcometer 112 Hexagonal Wet Film: Precision formed in stainless steel to be longlasting and reusable, with a measuring range of 25 - 3000m (1 - 120 mils), this hexagonal wet film combs provides a quick and easy method of measuring wet film thickness. Elcometer 107 Cross Hatch Cutter and Adhesive Tape: Supplied with ISO 2409 or ASTM D 3359 adhesive tape, the Elcometer 107 provides an instant assessment of the quality of the bond to the substrate. Due to its rugged construction, this gauge is ideal for thin, thick or tough coatings on all surfaces. Elcometer 456 Ferrous Digital Coating Thickness Gauge: With its advanced menu structures and the introduction of Bluetooth wireless technology* for cable free data transfer, the Elcometer 456 is one of the most advanced coating thickness gauges available.

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Elcometer Universal Paint Inspection Gauge

The Elcometer 121/3 Universal Paint Inspection Gauge (P.I.G) provides a quick, versatile method of coating examination and destructive measurement of coating thickness and cross hatch adhesion in a portable, easy-to-use gauge. The gauge can be used on single or multiple coats on virtually all substrates including wood, plastics and metal. A bright white LED ensures clear vision through the integrated 50x microscope with graticule scale.

Compact and convenient: o Holds three knife sizes and one cross cut knife and is small in size to facilitate the use of the gauge in confined areas. Ergonomic design: o Simply rotate the cutter holder to change the cutting tool. Lightweight and durable: o Made of titanium anodised aluminium for durability. Bright LED light source: o Bright white LED lights to ensure clear vision through the integrated microscope. Auto & Truck Paint Thickness Meter & Gauge Information Elcometer Paint Thickness Meters & Gauges

For the last 10 years, Elcometer, Inc has made meters & gauges to measure the paint thickness on vehicles. They were the original designers of equipment to measure the coating thickness and paint thickness on steel panels. The Elcometer paint meter & gauge work from a principle of magnetic induction. They create and electronic magnetic field and then send out a signal to

reflect from the substrate the thickness of the paint on the panels. Two years ago, Elcometer, again the originator and industry leader, brought out a meter & gauge to measure paint thickness on aluminum, in addition to steel. The Elcometer meters & gauges are called the 311 Basic to measure paint thickness on steel panels only and the 311 Highline to measure paint thickness on both steel and aluminum panels. The Elcometer 311 Highline meter & gauge automatically recognizes the substrates and switches from steel to aluminum in a second to gauge paint thickness on both. The Elcometer 311 paint meters & gauges measure in mils, which is a U.S. painting term. It means that the thickness of the paint is 1,000th of an inch thick. This is very finite and their accuracy is second to none. They measure by mil increments, so if you are reading the paint thickness meter or gauge on a car, it will read 4.0, then 4.5, then 5.0 and so on. You do not need to read any finer than in mil increments. I have bought a few thousand cars at auctions with these Elcometer meters & gauges and they tell you all that you need. They will even find bondo under the paint, so while we call them Elcometer paint meters & gauges, they are also bondo locators, too. Auto Auctions When you are buying cars at the auto auctions, your job is vehicle valuation in very short periods of time. With the Elcometer paint meter or gauge, you can pick the cars apart. Using a paint thickness gauges & meters, I can get around a car in about 15 seconds without opening a door. Without Elcometer paint meter & gauge, it takes me about 3 or 4 minutes to look at a car or truck, with most of that time spent looking at the outside skin of the car, for paint work. How long does it take to open the door and check for mileage and interior equipment and smell for smoke, just a few seconds. And then I would probably only bid on one out of 4 or 5 cars, as the others would have new paint on fenders or doors or have been repainted. With the Elcometer paint meter or gauge, I can tell you 95% sure if the paint thickness is the factory paint thickness or new paint. A few times a body shop can spray on the original thickness of the paint and the meters tell you little. But most of the time the Elcometer paint gauges & meters will show you instantly the differences between the factory paint and the aftermarket paint work and thereby you can determine whether the car is intact or reworked and then decide if you want to bid on it or not. Many of the auctions use the Elcometer paint meter or gauge for inspection of the cars for their condition reports. They have to check in so many cars that time and accuracy is a must. Elcometer has by far the majority of the meter sales in the car and truck business. Their paint thickness gauges & meters are renowned for accuracy, repeatability and durability. With the amount of online sales that the auctions are going to now, they are primarily using the Elcometer paint meter to gauge the cars. This way they can call out the thickness of the paint with Elcometer equipment that is respected throughout the industry for representing the paint thickness readings. When you are selling cars over the internet, they need this tool. Meter & Gauge Paint Thickness: Why?

It is very important to measure or gauge the paint thickness on vehicles to find out if the car has been in an accident, has refinishing of rusted areas or other repairs. Repaired body panels do not always have the same wear rating and durability of the factory paint work, so using a Elcometer paint gauge or meter is an extremely valuable tool in discovery. If the car has been repaired or repainted, it will normally show in time that the life of the paint is not nearly as long lasting as the factory paint work. When you use the Elcometer paint meters and gauges, you can find out the actual condition of the vehicle and protect yourself from the decreased value of a vehicle upon resale, thereby retaining your profits. Also, if the car is not represented properly on resale it will damage your reputation or in some cases cause lawsuits, as some states require that you disclose prior paint work. The Elcometer paint thickness meter or gauge will protect you from this. They are an accurate and almost irrefutable way to gauge the paint thickness and show it to the customers or buyers. How to use the Elcometer Paint Meter & Gauge The paint thickness gauges & meters are fast and easy to use. You are looking for differences or discrepancies in the thickness of paint. For instance, I have found that on most German and Japanese cars, the paint thickness, using the Elcometer paint thickness gauge or meter is between 4 to 5 mils. I go around the car quickly the first time, just putting the paint meters & gauges on each panel one time. Then I can check the paint thickness on the whole vehicle. This is good as you want to get an idea of the whole car, so then you can see when the gauge or meter moves up or down, signifying a panel that has been worked on. So, as an example, let's say I start at a rear quarter panel. I put the Elcometer paint meter or gauge on the left rear of a Japanese car. The paint meter reads 4.0 mils. Then I go to the rear door and the meter reads 4.5 mils. Then the driver's door reads 5.0 mils with the paint gauge. That is within normal factory paint run out. We know this as Elcometer paint thickness meters & gauges are the preferred and almost exclusively used paint meters or gauges in the automobile factories around the world. Next I go to the left front fender and the paint meter shows 3.0 mils. That panel is 1 mil thinner than the rest of the car and has most likely been replaced. Then I put the Elcometer paint gauge or meter on the hood and it reads 6 or 7 mils or more and that panel has been replaced or painted again. The Elcometer paint meters & gauges will even find bondo under the paint. The paint meter or gauge will read up to 20 mils thick. Since all the car factory paints normally run between 4 to 6 mils or 6 to 8 mils, when you get up to 11 mils and above the paint is either very thick or then have bondo underneath. When the Elcometer paint meter or gauge shows tow straight horizontal lines ( -- ), it is showing that it has found the metal underneath the paint, but it cannot read it as it is over 20 mils thick. Thus showing bondo. Who is our Primary market? The main buyers of the Elcometer paint thickness meters & gauges are the used car managers and the buyers for stores that sell used cars. Also, automotive wholesalers, inspection service and insurance companies buy the Elcometer paint gauges & meters. In addition, body shops and detail shops love the paint gauge or meter as they can tell them much about what they have to

work with. If you have a scratch on the paint of the car, a paint meter or gauge is much better to use than the old "thumbnail test". If you can measure the thickness of the paint, most of the time, you will have an idea if you have enough top coat of paint on the panel to be able to sand it down without going through to the color or prime coats of the paint. Elcometer paint meters & gauges are an invaluable tool to all these companies. Weather and other Conditions of Vehicles when buying I have used the Elcometer paint thickness meter or gauge in all weather conditions. I have used the paint gauges & meters in the rain, when the cars are soaking wet and they will tell me what I need to know. I have used the gauges & meters on dusty and dirty cars and they will read the paint thickness without removing the dust or cleaning the car. I have used them in temperatures to at least 5 below zero and they work well, though the Elcometer paint meter or gauge will read a little slower. I have used them in Florida and at the auctions out west when the air temperatures are 100 degrees or more and the blacktop surface temperature is probably over 120 degrees F and the Elcometer paint meter & gauge has worked well in all those conditions. How to Buy the Elcometer Paint thickness Meters & Gauges The Elcometer paint thickness meter & gauge is sold by phone usually 7 days per week. We have a toll free phone number in the USA which is 1-800-974-2492. We are working from 9am until at least 6pm Eastern standard time. We take credit cards from Visa, Master Card and American Express. We ship the Elcometer paint meters or gauges everyday from Monday until Friday, except for holidays. The Elcometer paint meter or gauge is the best tool that you can buy in the car business. For the cost of a few hundred dollars, you can gauge & meter the paint thickness in seconds, find out much more than you can with only your sight and touch and properly assess the value and resaleability of the vehicle. With and Elcometer paint meters & gauges you can pay for the meter with one car. One car that would save a mistake on. One car that you bought quickly at the auction that you would not have otherwise bid on, as without a paint gauge or meter, you would not have had the time to look at the car to bid on it. The Elcometer paint thickness meters & gauges.. The best tools in the business.