Thickness gauging, also known as thickness measurement or thickness testing, is a non-destructive testing (NDT) technique used to determine the thickness of materials, coatings, or layers. It is commonly applied in various industries, including manufacturing, construction, aerospace, automotive, and marine, to ensure the integrity, safety, and quality of components and structures.
Thickness gauging can be applied to a wide range of materials, including metals (steel, aluminum, etc.), plastics, composites, glass, and more. It is often used to measure the thickness of substrates and coatings on substrates.
Thickness gauging is a crucial element of quality control and maintenance programs in various industries. It helps prevent failures, ensures structural safety, maintains coating effectiveness, and assists in material characterization. Properly conducted thickness gauging can extend the lifespan of components and reduce maintenance costs.