Multi-functional coating test instruments operate like "Swiss army knives"

Coating measurement equipment that performs like a "Swiss army knife" with multi-functional testing capabilities allow greater flexibility and productivity

With greater flexibility than limited traditional equipment, modern analytical instruments can ensure reliable coating performance by measuring critical characteristics like friction, peel, wear, and scratch resistance.

Industrial coatings applied to substrates like metal, plastic, glass, and composite protect various products from corrosion and damage to extend lifespan. Commercial coatings are also routinely applied to wood, metal and concrete structures to protect against mechanical, chemical, and environmental degradation while improving aesthetics. To ensure quality, manufacturers that utilize or formulate coatings rely on various methods of testing to determine resistance to friction, peel, wear, and scratches.

Without the necessary adhesive strength or durability, it is possible for a coating to bubble, flake, peel, or otherwise fail prematurely. Depending on the application, this can cause costly warranty issues as well as safety issues that can compromise the manufacturer's reputation and market share.

As an example, for several years a popular minivan struggled with paint blistering and bubbling in the heat, direct sun, and exposure to road salt in northern regions.

"Paint and primer would start to flake off some vehicles in a matter of just a few months, leading to rust spots and an undesirable finish. The auto manufacturer could have avoided damage to their reputation and financial loss from warranty claims with more thorough coating testing using the proper measurement equipment," says John Bogart, Managing Director of Kett US (kett.com), a manufacturer of a full range of testing instruments for adhesion, peel, and wear measurement.

To create reliable coatings or products that utilize them, engineers and quality assurance teams require reliable test instruments to verify that the necessary properties and industry standards are met, particularly for high-value or high-volume applications.