DFT meaning

Dry film thickness (DFT) is the thickness of a coating as measured above the substrate. This can consist of a single layer or multiple layers.

DFT gauge / meter

DFT meter or gauge is used to measure the coating thickness on Ferrous or Non-Ferrous metal substrates using electromagnetic induction and/or eddy current principles.

Surface Profile

Surface profile is a measurement of the peak-to-valley height, by using a surface profile gauge. Surface roughness, on the other hand, is the combined measurements of the surface profile and the frequency of the peaks across a linear length (also known as the peak count).

Surface Roughness

Surface roughness, often shortened to roughness, is a component of surface texture. It is quantified by the deviations in the direction of the normal vector of a real surface from its ideal form. If these deviations are large, the surface is rough; if they are small, the surface is smooth. Surface roughness is measured using a stylus instrument.

How do you measure coating thickness?

Dry Film Thickness can be measured on either magnetic steel surfaces or non-magnetic metal surfaces such as stainless steel or aluminium using a digital coating thickness gauge. The principle of electromagnetic induction is used for non-magnetic coatings on magnetic substrates such as steel. The eddy current principle is used for non-conductive coatings on non-ferrous metals substrates.

What is coating thickness?

Coating Thickness can be split into wet film thickness and dry film thickness. The coating thickness is vital in the quality control process. Usually specified by the paint manufacturer, asset owner or third party, who will specify the paint and the specifications.  Ways to measure coating thickness ranges from wet film combs for wet film to sophisticated digital coating thickness gauges for dry film.

What is dry film thickness?

Dry film thickness (DFT) is the thickness of a coating as measured above the substrate. This can consist of a single layer or multiple layers. DFT is measured for cured coatings (after the coating dries). The thickness of a coating depends on the application and type of process employed.

What is wet film thickness?

Dry film thickness, or DFT is a measurement of the dry and cured material after all liquid has evaporated.

Wet film thickness, or WFT is the measured thickness of any applied wet paint that is liquid-based.

How do you measure wet film thickness?

WFT is measured by using Combs or Gauges by the applicator as the coating is being applied to ensure that the measurement is representative of the calculated wet film before significant solvent evaporation occurs.