A Cologne-based manufacturer now enables coating thickness measurement with an app and wireless sensor. The conventional measuring device is replaced by a radio sensor and the associated app takes over all the tasks of a professional coating thickness measuring device and is available on smartphones and tablets at any time.

ElektroPhysik has been developing and producing precision measuring instruments for more than 70 years. Now, the pioneer in the field of non-destructive coating thickness measurement is responding to users' desire for more mobility and flexibility with a device that enables field use without the need for large equipment.

With the digital SIDSP sensors (Sensor-Integrated Digital Signal Processing) developed by ElektroPhysik, the entire measurement electronics are housed in the sensor. The measured values can be transferred via Bluetooth to a compatible measuring device from ElektroPhysik or to the SmarTest app on the cell phone, where they can be displayed and evaluated. Alternatively, the data can also be transferred to a coating thickness gauge from ElektroPhysik.

Two LEDs on the SmarTest sensor provide information on the current connection status and the measured value recording with limit value monitoring. Recorded measured values are immediately displayed on the screen.

Particularly surveyors, experts and experts in leading positions who are often on the road and for whom the smartphone replaces the PC simply want to have a measuring device always at hand - like the ballpoint pen in the jacket pocket in the past. The measurement results can, of course, still be further processed on other platforms, because the measurement value files are quickly sent by e-mail from the mobile device in the standard CSV format to any desired recipient. With the SmarTest, users thus have the same - precision and variety of functions at their disposal as with one of ElektroPhysik's coating thickness gauges. On the generous touchscreen of a smartphone, the app shows recorded measurement series, statistical data and calibration information at a glance. The settings and calibrations are as easy and convenient to use as the smartphone itself.

In the standard version, SmartTest consists of an F 1.5 sensor for measuring non-magnetic coatings on magnetic substrates or an FN 1.5 sensor in addition for measuring insulating coatings on metals, as well as the free app to cover everyday applications. Compatible with the concept, however, are all SIDSP sensors from ElektroPhysik, such as special for measurements of thick coatings or special miniature sensors in straight and angled designs or for measuring hard-to-reach places, grooves or recesses. In addition, special probes for measurement on car body sheet metal are less sensitive in their measurement behavior both to deviating target geometries and with regard to different base materials. An individual SmarTest version tailored to the respective task or area of application is therefore possible without any problems. The SmarTest concept now complements ElektroPhysik's well-known measurement accuracy, reliability, ergonomics and manufacturing quality with a device that ensures mobility and simplicity in the non-destructive surface measurement of paints, anodizing, chrome, zinc and other coatings on a variety of substrates.

► Electrophysics Dr. Steingroever

► www.elektrophysik.com