Banana Gauge
11 different analog models available for every application
Suitable for measurement on curved surfaces
The MikroTest Banana Gauge is the most widely used coating thickness gauge in the world over the last 40 years. The MikroTest Banana Gauge complies with the highest technical standards of all analogue magnetic coating thickness gauges. This magnetic coating thickness gauge works on the magnetic attraction principle to measure all non-magnetic coatings on steel and galvanic nickel on steel.
The MikroTest is supplied in 11 different models to be suitable for every requested application. The balanced measuring system ensures accurate readings at any angle: horizontal, vertical and overhead. Also, the gauge allows measurements on curved surfaces. It is also able to provide you with precise measurements in tubes and on round parts due to the automatic operation.
The measurement of the coating thickness is based on magnetic attraction. The attractive force is related to the distance between a permanent magnet and a steel substrate. This distance represents the thickness of the coating under measure. The magnet is lifted from the surface by means of a spring connected to the magnet arm. The force needed to lift the magnet is directly related to the angle of rotation of the torsion spring. This measuring principle is also especially suited for electroplated nickel on copper, aluminum and other non-ferrous metals. This measurement principle ensures fully automatic measurement where no power supply or calibration is required.
MikroTest FM 5 Gage, Coating Thickness, 0 to 40 mils
Kit Contents
- MikroTest gauge
- Hand strap
- Plastic carrying case
- Operating instructions
|  |
Features
- Mils Models Include a NIST traceable calibration certificate, Micron Models include factory "works" certificate
- Highest accuracy with simplest operation
- No calibration required
- Simple set-up and measurement
- All gauges operate without power or battery
- One point measurement
- Metal Housing provides protection from mechanical shocks
- Metal Housing and measuring system is resistant to solvents
- Automatic models control realease of magnet for highest accuracy and repeatability
Specifications
| Ambient Temperature | -20 C - 100 C |
| Conforming Standards | DIN EN ISO 2178, DIN 50 982, ASTM B 499, E 376, D 1186, G 12, B 530, BS 5411, ISO 2361 |
| Dimensions | Gauge: 215 mm x 55 mm x 29 mm Plastic carrying case: 235 mm x 185 mm x 46 mm |
| Weight | Case incl. gauge approx. 560 g |
| Calibration Shims | Here are the two technical reasons why you cannot use plastic shims/foils plus zero plate to check calibration of MikroTest:
1. All Plastic Shims/Foils have a certain prestress which has the effect that they are slightly bent when the magnet lifts off and this effect is similar to the effect of a spring will cause inaccurate readings
2. The Plastic Shims/Foils have a certain electrostatic charge which also causes inaccurate readings. |
Demo Video
- Adjust dial to value higher than the expected thickness
- Place gauge on surface to be measured
- Press button on bottom of handle take make the magnet adhere to surface
- Slowly turn wheel backwards until you hear a click and the magnet lifts
- Read thickness value
| |
Models
High Temperature Option
An Optional High Temperature Kit is offered (MK-HT) for using MikroTest models on surface temperatures up to 212F (100C). It can also be used on surface temperatures up to 572F (300C), but the MikroTest must be limited to less than 5 seconds of surface contact or damage will result. The MK-HT Kit consists of aluminum feet and sensor prism.
