Pipe coating scratch tester

The Pipe Coating Scratch Tester, also known as a paint and varnish scratch resistance tester or balanced scratch rod adhesion tester, is a precision instrument designed to evaluate the scratch resistance of single or composite coating systems on insulating color-coated boards or pipes. The test determines the maximum weight at which a steel spherical needle either scratches the coating or leaves it intact, providing a quantitative assessment of coating durability. The device offers real-time display of scratch results, enabling accurate quality control and material evaluation.

Application

(1) Scratch resistance evaluation of single-layer coatings on insulating color-coated boards or pipes.

(2) Scratch resistance testing of multi-layer or composite coating systems.

(3) Quality control of industrial coatings for pipelines, tanks, and metal structures.

(4) Research and development of new coatings with improved mechanical resistance.

(5) Comparative analysis of coatings to select optimal formulations for industrial applications.

(6) Educational and laboratory demonstration for coating durability testing.

Standards

(1) AS/NZS AS2924.2 – Scratch resistance of coatings.

(2) ASTM C217 – Varnish and coating resistance.

(3) BS EN 438.2 – Scratch resistance of laminates.

(4) BS EN 13310 – Scratch and abrasion resistance of surfaces.

(5) BS EN 14323 – Coating performance of panels.

(6) BS EN 14688 – Scratch testing for decorative coatings.

(7) DIN 53799 – Paint scratch resistance.

(8) DIN 68861-4 – Mechanical properties of coated materials.

(9) ISO 1518 – Paints and varnishes – Scratch test.

(10) BS 3900 – Methods for evaluating coatings.

(11) ASTM D5178 – Standard test for scratch resistance.

(12) ASTM D2197 – Coating film hardness and scratch performance.

Features

(1) Evaluates scratch resistance of both single and composite coating systems.

(2) Uses a spherical steel needle to provide precise, repeatable scratch testing.

(3) Adjustable travel speed (1–120 mm/sec) to simulate different scratch conditions.

(4) Real-time display of scratched or unscratched coating results on the conductor substrate.

(5) Supports various steel ball needle diameters (1 mm standard; 1.6 mm optional).

(6) Adjustable standard weights for testing different coating strengths (200 g, 500 g, 2000 g, etc.).

(7) Compact design suitable for laboratory and industrial testing environments.

(8) Conforms to international and national standards (ISO, ASTM, BS, DIN).

Technical Parameters

Accessories

(1) Set of standard steel ball needles (1 mm, optional 1.6 mm).

(2) Standard weights (200 g, 500 g, 2000 g, etc.).

(3) Mounting fixture for coated samples.

(4) Calibration tools for needle and weight verification.

(5) User manual and compliance certificates.

Test Procedures

Secure the sample on the testing platform.

Select the steel ball needle diameter and the corresponding test weight.

Adjust the travel speed according to the test requirement (1–120 mm/sec).

Start the scratch test, moving the steel needle across the coating surface.

Observe the real-time display for scratch occurrence.

Record whether the coating is scratched or unscratched at each applied weight.

Repeat the test with additional weights or needles if required.

Maintenance Information

(1) Clean the testing platform, steel needles, and weight system regularly to avoid debris affecting results.

(2) Inspect steel needles before each test; replace if worn or deformed.

(3) Verify calibration of travel speed and weight accuracy periodically.

(4) Keep the instrument in a dry, dust-free environment to ensure long-term stability.

(5) Lubricate moving parts according to manufacturer recommendations.