Measuring Zinc Coating Thickness of Hot-dip Galvanized Steel
Coating thickness is tested by using a magnetic thickness gauge. There are three types of magnetic thickness gauges: pencil-style, banana-style, and electronic. Electronic thickness gauges are the most common and the most accurate. Information on how to measure the thickness with magnetic gauges is contained in ASTM E376, and the minimum coating thicknesses and sampling requirements are contained in the appropriate specification for the product (ASTM A123, A153, or A767). A single measurement of coating thickness is not sufficient to evaluate whether the galvanized coating adheres to the specification (ASTM A123, A153, A767) requirements. Each specification calls out sampling size and averaging techniques to develop a true picture of compliance.
© 2023 American Galvanizers Association. The material provided herein has been developed to provide accurate and authoritative information about after-fabrication hot-dip galvanized steel. This material provides general information only and is not intended as a substitute for competent professional examination and verification as to suitability and applicability. The information provided herein is not intended as a representation or warranty on the part of the AGA. Anyone making use of this information assumes all liability arising from such use.
Comments
Su Hnin Wai
What is minimum coating thickness?Please tell me what happen when the coating thickness is very thin?
(AGA)
Minimum coating thickness requirements depend on material type and steel thickness - the values are provided within the Galvanizing standard, such as ASTM A123 Table 1. Coating which do not meet the minimum requirement are rejected.
Yiho Lee
Is there any affect to measure the thickness of Galvanized steel with Elcometor456. As I know the layers are divided as contant how many % of Fe (Gamma, Delta, Zeta, Eta) and the contant of Fe can affect to the result of thickness mesurment with Elcometor 456?
(AGA)
Yiho Lee, ASTM A123 states a digital magnetic coating thickness gauge (such as the Elcometer 456) is suitable for obtaining coating galvanized coating thickness measurements. To ensure accuracy while using the gauge, follow the guidance within ASTM E376. Please contact Elcometer directly regarding the performance of their specific models and equipment.