Using a
Wet Film Thickness Gauge


Most catalyzed and newer compliant coatings
specify a maximum wet film application
and total thickness build.

Use the gauge to avoid finish failure
from over-building a finish coating.

Calibrated in mils or microns on opposite sides.


Use of the Wet Film Thickness Gauge

  1. Place gauge on wet film at 90° angle.
  2. Press into film.
  3. Withdraw and note deepest tooth having paint on it
    and next higher tooth that is not coated.
  4. The wet film thickness lies between these two readings.
  5. Clean gauge in any suitable solvent immediately after use.


The drawing indicates that tooth marked 3 mils is covered with the wet paint and tooth marked 4 mils is not covered. This indicates that the true wet film thickness of the material is between 3 and 4 mils thick.

Note: A wet film gauge is especially valuable for evaluating
the coating when working with a new finishing system
or for calibrating new spray equipment.

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11/18/13