Overview
EN ISO 2808:2019 - Paints and varnishes: Determination of film thickness (ISO 2808:2019) specifies standardized methods for measuring the thickness of coatings applied to substrates. It covers procedures for wet‑film thickness, dry‑film thickness, and the film thickness of uncured powder layers, giving for each method the field of application, existing normative references and the expected precision. Annex B addresses measurement on rough surfaces and Annex C covers wooden substrates. This European adoption is identical to ISO 2808:2019 and supersedes EN ISO 2808:2007.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope and definitions: Terms and definitions for coating and film‑thickness measurement are provided to ensure consistent interpretation.
- Wet‑film measurement methods:
- Mechanical gauges (comb, wheel, dial)
- Gravimetric (mass difference)
- Photothermal techniques
- Dry‑film measurement methods:
- Mechanical thickness comparison and depth gauging
- Optical methods (cross‑sectioning, interferometry, wedge cut)
- Magnetic methods (magnetic pull‑off, magnetic‑flux, eddy‑current)
- Radiological (beta backscatter)
- Photothermal and acoustic (ultrasonic reflection)
- Electromagnetic (terahertz)
- Uncured powder layers:
- Gravimetric procedures and specific handling guidance for pre‑cure thickness determination
- Method selection guidance: For each method the standard describes field of application, general procedure, and precision information so users can choose appropriate techniques based on substrate, coating type and required accuracy.
- Special substrates: Practical notes for rough surfaces and wooden substrates (Annexes B and C) to improve measurement reliability.
Practical applications and users
This standard is essential for anyone needing reliable coating thickness measurement in production, inspection or research:
- Paint and varnish manufacturers - quality control and R&D.
- Coating applicators and contractors - on‑site acceptance and process control.
- Inspection bodies and test laboratories - standardized test methods and reporting.
- Automotive, aerospace, marine and construction sectors - corrosion protection, durability and specification compliance.
- Spec writers and procurement teams - defining acceptance criteria and test methods in contracts and technical specifications.
Practical benefits include consistent measurement results, improved quality assurance, and clear method selection guidance for different coating systems and substrates.
Related standards
- Identical to ISO 2808:2019 and supersedes EN ISO 2808:2007.
(Consult national standards bodies for up‑to‑date cross‑references and any regional implementation details.)
