What measurement principle is used in ultrasonic thickness gauges?
Ultrasonic thickness gauges are currently used in a wide range of industrial applications. Measuring thickness without having to approach both surfaces of the piece being measured has led to a wide range of applications. Metals, plastics, ceramics, glass and other materials can be easily measured with a portable ultrasonic thickness gauge with an accuracy of 0.01mm.
Ultrasonic thickness gauges measure the thickness of a part by measuring the time it takes for the sound to travel through the transducer through the material to the bottom of the part, and then measuring the time it takes to return to the transducer. The instrument can calculate a thickness value based on the speed of sound through the material being measured.
A variety of piezoelectric transducers, operating at specific frequencies, are used to generate sound. Typically, a frequency of 5MHz is standard on all Festo ultrasonic thickness gauges. Optional transducers are often available for a wide range of applications.
The pulse/echo direct contact method of ultrasonic thickness gauges requires the use of a coupling agent. Propylene glycol is commonly used, but many other substances can be used.
Easy to configure and use, many of today's instruments have the ability to store and output to printers, computers and handheld portable devices. The combination of simple instrument-driven menus and data storage allows the technician/operator with extensive operating skills to obtain highly accurate and cost-effective measurements in all types of thickness measurement applications.
