Wall Thickness Gauges
Ultrasonic vs Magnetic Measurement
When inspecting pipes, tanks, structural components or plastic packaging, measuring wall thickness accurately and non-destructively is essential. Two main techniques are commonly used for this purpose: ultrasonic thickness gauges and magnetic thickness gauges. Each offers distinct advantages depending on the material and application.
| Ultrasonic Thickness Gauges | Magnetic Wall Thickness Gauges – MiniTest FH |
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| Ultrasonic gauges operate by emitting high-frequency sound waves that travel through the material and reflect from its back wall. The thickness is calculated based on the return time of the echo. These gauges are suitable for a wide range of homogeneous materials, including plastics, composites, glass, and metals. Advantages: ✔ Non-destructive measurement from one side only ✔ Compatible with a wide variety of homogeneous materials ✔ Special modes available for measuring through paint or coatings (model dependent) ✔ Broad range of transducers available for curved, rough, thin or coated surfaces ✔ Reliable and cost-effective solution for many industrial environments Typical Applications: Corrosion inspection in steel structures, quality control in plastic manufacturing, maintenance of ship hulls, pipelines, tanks, and pressure vessels. |
The MiniTest FH is a precision magnetic wall thickness gauge engineered specifically for non-magnetic materials such as plastic, glass, and aluminium. It is especially effective for thin-wall applications or components with limited internal access where ultrasonic methods may be less suitable. Advantages: ✔ Ideal for objects with restricted access or narrow internal diameters ✔ No need for coupling fluids or disassembly ✔ Accurate measurement through internal-external magnetic detection ✔ Especially suitable for transparent or non-metallic containers ✔ Compact, portable, and easy to operate Typical Applications: Measurement of glass and plastic bottles, medical containers, packaging films, tubes, and components with internal diameters larger than 1.1 mm. How it works: A small magnetic ball is inserted inside the test object, and a magnetic sensor is placed on the outside. The gauge measures the distance between the probe and the ball using a magnetic field. Different sensor and ball sizes allow for measurements from 0.3 mm to 23 mm. |
Need help choosing the right ultrasonic or magnetic thickness gauge? Our technical team can help you select the most appropriate solution—ultrasonic or magnetic—based on your material, shape, and measurement conditions. Contact us for expert advice or a tailored quote.
MiniTest FH Precision Wall Thickness Tester
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MiniTest FH Series Magnetic Thickness Gauge
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