Protective coatings are used to protect various structures and surfaces from corrosion, wear, and other types of damage. These coatings can be applied to metal, concrete, and other surfaces, and are crucial for maintaining the integrity and longevity of the structures they protect. However, over time, protective coatings can degrade and lose their effectiveness. To ensure that coatings are in good condition, regular inspections are necessary. In this blog post, we will discuss the different techniques used to assess the adhesion and thickness of protective coatings, and how Toronto Industrial Painting, a professional AMPP senior certified coatings inspector in Toronto, can help ensure the integrity of your coatings.
One of the most common techniques used to assess the thickness of protective coatings is the use of dry film thickness gauges. These gauges use electromagnetic or ultrasonic waves to measure the thickness of the coating without damaging it. They can be used on both metallic and non-metallic surfaces and are accurate to within a few micrometers. Coating uses state-of-the-art dry film thickness gauges to ensure accurate measurements of coating thickness.
Adhesion testers are used to measure the adhesion or bonding strength of a coating to the surface it is protecting. The most common types of adhesion testers include the tape test, cross-cut test, and scrape adhesion test. In the tape test, a piece of tape is applied to the coating and then removed. The amount of coating that comes off with the tape is an indication of the coating's adhesion. The cross-cut test involves making a series of cuts in the coating, and then pulling on the coating to see if it delaminates or comes off. The scrape adhesion test involves using a specialized tool to scrape the coating and measure the force required to remove it. Certified coating inspectors use a variety of adhesion testers to ensure the coatings they apply will have strong adhesion to the substrate.
Holiday detection is a technique used to detect any areas of a coating that have been missed during the application process. This can include areas that are thin or not covered at all. The technique involves passing an electrical current through the coating, and any areas where the coating is not present will show up as a "holiday" or break in the electrical current. NACE inspectors use advanced holiday detection equipment to ensure that all areas of the coating have been properly applied. Learn more here.
A visual inspection is a simple but effective way to assess the overall condition of a coating. During a visual inspection, the inspector will look for any signs of damage, such as cracking, peeling, or chalking. They will also look for any areas of the coating that have been missed or are too thin. AMPP senior certified inspectors conduct visual inspections to ensure that the coating is in good condition.
Regular inspections are necessary to ensure that protective coatings are in good condition and providing the necessary protection. The techniques discussed in this blog post, including dry film thickness gauges, adhesion testers, holiday detection, and visual inspections, are all important tools for assessing the adhesion and thickness of coatings. It's important to work with a certified and experienced inspector to ensure the inspection is done correctly.
In conclusion, regular inspections are crucial for maintaining the integrity of protective coatings. By using the techniques discussed in this blog post, it is possible to detect any issues with the coating and take appropriate action to fix them. By working with a certified and experienced inspector, you can have peace of mind knowing that your protective coatings are in good condition and providing the necessary protection for your structures and surfaces.
For more information, you can refer to the SSPC: The Society for Protective Coatings channel. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7gPNgQmoUMxZS5yCcAOsAg