Have you started a new business or position that requires an ultrasonic coating thickness gauge? Or do you just want to upgrade your outdated equipment? Different products exist in the market. They have varied features and high-cost differences. Some are priced a few hundred dollars, but high-end ultrasound coating thickness gauges can cost thousands.
Ultrasonic coating thickness is commonly used in testing and inspections. They can measure how thick solid surfaces such as walls and pipes are without destroying the object under test. Whether the base is metal or non-metal (such as plastic), the ultrasonic thickness gauge can handle it. That said, this non-destructive approach is practical and applicable in various fields.
That is why the ultrasonic thickness gauge is more powerful than the paint thickness gauge that is powered by eddy current or/and magnetic induction.
This instrument use probes to send a sound pulse through the test material. It then measures the time it takes to receive the reflected sound wave (echo) from the inside wall of the material. That allows fast and reliable measurement of the thickness of different materials and structures for integrity.
However, many ultrasonic coating thickness materials in the market make it challenging to decide on the product to buy. Although it largely depends on the cost and intended use, you should trade off carefully between the price and features.
Read on for detailed reviews of the best ultrasound coating thickness gauges. It took us hours and resources to compile this list to help you make an informed decision.
| Product | Image | Accuracy | Measuring Range | Precision | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Amtast AMA006 |   | ± (1%H+0.1mm) | 1.2 to 225 mm (0.05-8.8inch) | 0.1 mm |  |
| 2. YUSHI UM2 |   | Not Specified | 0.03'' to 12'' | 0.001 inch (0.01mm) | |
| 3. BSIDE CCT11 |   | ±(0.5%+0.04)mm | 0.75-300mm | 0.01mm | |
| 4. DeFelsko PosiTector 6000 |   | +/-(0.05 Mils + 1%) up to 2 Mils Then +/-(0.1 Mils + 1%) | 0 to 60 Mils | Not specified | |
| 5. REED CM-8822 |   | 100µm: ±3% of rdg | 0 to 40mils (0 to 1000µm) 0.1µm (0 to 99.9µm) | 1µm (<100µm) | |
| 6. VVV-Group CM-214 |   | Not specified | 0-2000um (0-78.7mil) | 0.01mil | |
Top 6 Best Ultrasonic Coating Thickness Gauges in 2023
Different brands and models of ultrasonic coating thickness gauges exist in the market. In this review, you have carefully selected the best products under each price range. Our hours of research led to a compilation of the following products:
1. AMTAST AMA006 Ultrasonic Coating Thickness Gauge Meter [Our Top Choice]
AMTAST Digital Ultrasonic is an easy-to-use thickness tester and can be used on many base materials. You can effectively and reliably use it to measure locating thickness on metals, glass, plastic, toughened tiles, and other materials.
The main features of this coating thickness gauge tester include ultrasonic frequency adjustment. You can change it according to the substrate to get more accurate results. It is also designed for ease of use. The interface is simple and has buttons and an LCD screen that makes it easy to use for measuring thickness.
Specifications:
- Ultrasonic frequency: 5MHz
- Digital display: 4 digitals
- Measuring range: 1.2mm-225mm(steel)
- Pipe measures: minimum dia. 20x3mm(steel)
- Velocity range: 1000-9999 m/s
- Resolution: 0.1 mm.
- Accuracy: ±(1%H+0.1mm)
- Response time: 0.5 S
Pros:
- Build in a metal piece for calibration
- Low battery voltage indication
- Ultrasonic velocity adjustable
- Measures thickness of a wide range of materials
- Auto power off
Cons:
- No data storage and data logging
2. YUSHI UM2 Series UM-2 Ultrasonic Thickness Gauge
This ultrasonic gauge can measure coating thickness on almost any material. It is compatible with glass, steel, ceramic, metal, and plastic. UM2 Series UM-2 Ultrasonic Thickness Gauge is widely used in manufacturing and metal processing but is usable in any other field that requires accurate coating thickness measurements.
UM-2 Ultrasonic Thickness Gauge has additional functions such as auto power shutoff when idle and warning functions. It sounds an alarm when the measured value exceeds a preset value, making it easy to identify flaws in a paint coat. It is the best option for measuring corrosion on metal pipes and other surfaces.
Specification:
- Resolution/accuracy: 0.01mm/0.001 inches
- Measuring Range: 0.8mm-300mm/0.03-11.81 in
- Base material: Plastic, Steel, PVC, Glass Plates, and Pipes
Pros:
- Data storage and data logging
- Auto power shutoff
- Fast and accurate
- Versatile, reliable, and durable
- Ergonomic design and easy to use
- Large LCD screen with EL backlight
Cons:
- Very expensive
3. BSIDE CCT11 Digital Ultrasonic Thickness Gauge Tester
As the name suggests, the BSIDE CCT11 Digital Ultrasonic coating thickness gauge can measure the thickness of various materials. You can use it on metals, plastics, ceramics, composites, epoxies, glass, and other ultrasonic wave conducting materials.
The BSIDE CCT11 gauge tester has wide applications. You can choose it if you are in petroleum, chemical, metallurgy, shipbuilding, aerospace, etc. It is that versatile because of its high resolution and accuracy, putting it ahead of its competitors.
BSIDE CCT11 is a multi-functional device capable of two-point calibration, probe-zero, and sound-velocity-calibration functions. Other features include auto power off and low battery indication. It also comes with software for downloading data from memory and analyzing them. You can connect it to a printer via a PC to print out data.
Specifications:
- Base materials: Metal, ceramics, composites, epoxies, brass, copper, iron, plastic, PVC, glass, etc.
- Measuring range: 0.75-300mm (steel)
- Speed range: 1000-9999 m/s
- Resolution: 0.01mm
- Accuracy: ±(0.5%+0.04) mm
Pros:
- Auto power shutoff and low battery indication
- Coupling status indication
- Easy interfacing with PC and printer
- Performs measurements on a wide range of materials
- Has different functions for special applications
Cons:
- Not as accurate as advertised
- Still relatively expensive
4. DeFelsko PosiTector 6000 Ultrasonic [Best Alternative]
This coating thickness gauge features a color LCD display with translative technology to allow use under direct sunlight. Additionally, PosiTector 6000 can store up to 250 readings for future reference. They can be viewed directly on the device or downloaded for further analysis on a PC.
PosiTector 6000 is accurate, versatile, and durable. You get the best value for money because it perfectly balances features and cost.
The advanced version of PosiTector 6000 has additional features, but you pay more for it. It comes with a new high contrast reversible color LCD, more storage space for more readings, wireless technology, etc.
Specifications:
- Base Material: Ferrous and non-ferrous metals
- Accuracy: +/-(0.05 Mils + 1%) up to 2 Mils Then +/-(0.1 Mils + 1%)
- Measuring Range: 0 to 60 Mils
Pros:
- Simple design and easy to use
- Accurate, reliable, and versatile
- Statistics mode for data analysis
- Capable of storing readings
- Easy to interface with PC to download data
- Offers software for viewing, analyzing, and data reporting
Cons:
- Only supports metals (ferrous and non-ferrous)
5. REED Instruments CM-8822 Coating Thickness Gauge
REED Instruments CM-8822 boasts a quick response time and capability to measure ferrous and non-ferrous metals. It automatically calibrates itself and has user-selectable µm/mils. Other features include an easy-to-read LCD screen, low battery indicator, zero adjustment button, and automatic probe recognition.
REED Instruments CM-8822 coating thickness gauge has many applications. You can buy it for applications such as verification of paint thickness, measuring plating thickness, industrial manufacturing, and other industrial uses.
Specifications:
- Measuring Range: 0 to 40mils (0 to 1000µm)
- Accuracy: ±2µm for <100µm and ±3% for >100µm.
- Resolution: 0.1µm (0 to 99.9µm) 1µm (<100µm)
- Sampling Time: 1 second
Pros:
- Ergonomic design
- Easy to use
- Accurate and reliable
- Automatic probe recognition
- Easy-to-read LCD display
Cons:
- Relatively expensive
- Limited base material (only ferrous and non-ferrous metals)
6. VVV-Group CM-214 Coating Thickness Gauge
The most cost-effective coating thickness gauge to consider is the VVV-Group CM-214. It is the best choice if you have a low budget but still needs to measure coating thickness in the field. The instrument is water-resistant and highly portable.
VVV-Group CM-214 gauge is highly accurate and commonly used in the business and automotive industry to assess the quality of parts. It is a better option for inspecting lacquer or checking if a car has been involved in an accident. It can be your little secret teller when buying a used car.
This coating thickness gauge is compact and portable. It easily fits in a shirt pocket, making it the perfect choice to carry around.
Specifications:
- Resolution: 0.01mil
- Measurement Range: 0-2000um (0-78.7mil)
- Base material: Ferrous and non-ferrous material
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Highly portable
- Has a wide range of applications
- Ergonomic protected case
- Automatic identification of ferrous and non-ferrous metals
Cons:
- Limited functions
Ultrasonic Coating Thickness Gauge Buying Guide
What factors do you consider when buying an ultrasonic coating thickness gauge? It can be challenging to make the best choice if [you are uninformed. That’s why we have this short buying guide to jog your mind.
Consider the following factors before you buy any ultrasonic coating thickness gauge:
1. Price Tag
Ultrasonic coating thickness sensors are some of the most priced instruments on the market. Their costs range from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars. Usually, highly-priced ones are the best, but not always. Check the price tag against the features and trade-off for the best value for your money.
2. Intended Purpose
What do you want the ultrasonic coating thickness gauge meter for? If it is for measuring paint thickness on ferrous and non-ferrous metals, go for what does just that. You can save a few bucks by specifying the intended use. But if you need it for general thickness measurements, consider an instrument that works on different base materials. Just try to know beforehand what it can and cannot do before purchasing.
3. Accuracy and Precision
Accuracy and precision are two main parameters that define the quality and reliability of an ultrasonic coating thickness gauge. The higher they are, the better. Remember, you will be dealing with thin layers or want to accurately know the thickness of parts. Your instrument should give you accuracy in the order of micrometers.
4. Build Quality
It is expensive to invest in a reliable ultrasonic coating thickness gauge. Once you spend your money on one, it should serve you for decades or until you want to replace it. Check for the quality of the casing material, water and dust proofing ability, tolerance to occasional drops, and ease of use. You don’t need an overly complicated gauge if there is a simpler alternative.
Conclusion
Ultrasonic coating thickness gauges are entirely non-destructive to the base material and are easy to use. We have presented the best instruments in different categories you can consider if you want to buy one. But we also have the most recommended products.
The first best product is Amtast AMA006 ultrasonic coating thickness gauge. You get the best quality that you are paying for when you buy this gauge. It is fast, reliable, and has all the functions and features you expect on an instrument of its category.
Secondly, we recommend the BSIDE CCT11 Digital Ultrasonic coating thickness gauge. It is a bit cheaper compared to the second-best but offers fantastic features. You can use it on a wide range of base materials and easily interface it with your PC for data logging and analysis.
The PosiTector 6000 carries the day as the best alternative of the ultrasonic coating thickness gauge because it can be used for ferrous and non-ferrous base. It gives you the best value for money and features such as high accuracy, reliability, data logging, and software for analysis.
