Most coating specifications specify the thickness of the coating because coating thickness is often an important factor in the performance of the coating in service.

The methods included in this guide are suitable for acceptance testing and are to be found in ASTM standards.

Each method has its own limitations with respect to the kind of coating and its thickness.

1.1 This guide covers the methods for measuring the thickness of many metallic and inorganic coatings including electrodeposited, mechanically deposited, vacuum deposited, anodic oxide, and chemical conversion coatings.

1.2 This guide is limited to tests considered in ASTM standards and does not cover certain tests that are employed for special applications.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.