Micrometer film applicator NIP-MAFA series – Applications:

ASTM test method (ASTM D823 – Standard method for producing uniform coating films from paint, varnish and related products)

Purpose

The ASTM D823 method describes the production of uniform wet films of coatings for laboratory testing. It ensures reproducible layer thicknesses and surface quality for tests such as gloss, adhesion, hardness, and drying time.

Devices

• Micrometer film squeegee NIP-MAFA series – Precision stainless steel applicator with analog or digital micrometer screws for precise gap adjustment.

• test substrate – Glass, metal or sealed paper plates, cleaned and prepared according to the coating type.

• Draw surface – flat, vibration-free work surface or automatic film applicator table.

Proceedings

Preparation

• Mix the coating thoroughly and condition it to test temperature (typically 23 ± 2 °C).

• Clean the substrate with solvent or a lint-free cloth.

gap setting

• Adjust the micrometer screws to the desired layer thickness (e.g. 50 µm, 100 µm, 150 µm).

• Check the parallel alignment of the blade using calibration blocks.

Film application

• Apply a defined amount of coating material to the blade.

• Move the applicator evenly across the substrate (150 - 300 mm/s).

• Avoid jerky movements.

Drying and evaluation

• Level the film under controlled conditions and allow it to dry.

• Check wet and dry film thickness with a calibrated measuring device.

Important parameters

• Tolerance of film uniforms:± 2 µm for gaps ≤ 100 µm.

• Repeatability:within 1 % of the target thickness.

• Surface quality:free from streaks, bubbles or edge lift.

Technical significance

The ASTM method emphasizes Mechanical precision and constant pulling speed. With the micrometer control of the NIP-MAFA applicator, engineers can reproduce identical layer thicknesses and thus obtain reliable comparative data for formulation studies.

ISO test method (ISO 2808 – Paints and varnishes: Determination of layer thickness)

Purpose

ISO 2808 specifies standardized procedures for measuring and controlling the thickness of paints, varnishes, and related coatings. In combination with a micrometer applicator, it defines the production and verification of uniform wet films for laboratory testing.

Devices

• Micrometer film squeegee NIP-MAFA series – Adjustable Doctor Blade applicator with precise micrometer screws.

• Reference substrate – Glass or metal plates according to ISO 1514.

• Measuring instruments – Wet film combs or electronic thickness gauges, calibrated according to ISO 2178 or ISO 2360.

Proceedings

calibration

• Check the gap using certified feeler gauges or calibration blocks.

• Document the target gap and environmental conditions.

Film application

• Apply the coating evenly using the NIP-MAFA applicator.

• Maintain consistent pressure and angle to ensure homogeneous flow.

Thickness test

• Measure wet film thickness immediately at several points.

• After drying, determine the dry film thickness and compare it to the target value.

Reporting

• Document gap setting, coating type, viscosity, substrate, temperature and humidity.

• Calculate the deviation between target and actual thickness.

Important parameters

• Measurement accuracy:± 5 % of the target thickness.

• Environmental conditions:23 ± 2 °C, relative humidity 50 ± 5 %.

• Surface quality:no visible streaks or breaks.

Technical significance

The ISO method places emphasis on Traceability and calibration. It ensures that every film produced with the NIP-MAFA applicator can be referenced to certified measurement standards – crucial for international quality assurance and laboratory comparability.