| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Tolerance | ± 5 microns or ± 0.0002 inches on tooth heights |
| Construction | Rugged aluminum body for durability |
| Size / Dimensions | Pocket-sized; comfortably fits in work pockets |
| Units Available | Available in mils (imperial) and microns (metric) |
| Protective pouch | Leather pouch supplied for protection between uses |
Powder Comb
Uncured Powder Thickness Gauge
Instant Visual Check of Powder Depth Before Cure
The Powder Comb is a simple, robust tool used to verify uncured powder coating thickness before baking, helping ensure coatings cure to the correct final film thickness. It prevents issues like under- or over-coating, adhesion loss, or rework. The combs come in multiple models to suit different thickness ranges, and both mils and microns versions are available.
Supplied in the UK by DFT Instruments, each Powder Comb is offered with expert advice and backed by quality checks so you can rely on your results for QC and production monitoring.
Features
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Simple Pre-Cure Thickness Check – The Powder Comb is an easy-to-use mechanical gauge for measuring the thickness of dry, uncured powder coatings before they enter the oven.
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Versatile Application – Suitable for powders applied to metal, plastic, wood, glass, and other substrates, regardless of part size or shape.
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Stable, Accurate Readings – Wide stand-offs on both sides of the teeth keep the comb perfectly perpendicular to the surface for consistent measurements.
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Precision Engineering – Each comb is manufactured to a tight tolerance of ±5 µm (±0.0002 in) to ensure dependable accuracy.
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Protective Storage – Supplied with a durable leather pouch to keep the gauge clean and damage-free between uses.
Why Checking Matters
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Avoid Costly Re-Coating
When powder thickness is off target, rework is often needed after cure. Checking before the bake can catch issues early and avoid wasted time and material. -
Better Coating Performance
Correct powder thickness ensures better adhesion and finish uniformity; under-thickness may lead to weak spots, over-thickness can cause sagging or cracking. -
Consistent Quality Across Batches
Using the Powder Comb for setup and routine checks helps maintain product consistency, especially when handling different parts, substrates, or powder batches. -
Versatile Use Across Substrates
Works well on flat panels, curves, plastics, metals, and even wood or glass (when powder is applied), making it a flexible QC tool.
Why Choose DFT?
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Years of QC Expertise
DFT Instruments has served the UK coating and paint‐testing industry for decades, guiding customers to choose tools that match their coating processes. -
Guaranteed Authentic Quality
We provide genuine DeFelsko Powder Combs, made to strict tolerances, with durability expected for industrial usage. -
Support & Advice Included
We help you pick the right model for your powder and substrate; we also provide tips for usage for most accurate readings. -
UK Stock & Service
Combs in stock in the UK, fast shipping, and local support make it easier to get the tool when you need it.
Features & Benefits
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Pocket-sized and easy to carry—fits into shirts/overalls for instant checks.
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Broad stand-offs on both sides of the teeth ensure the gauge stays perpendicular to the powder surface for reliable readings.
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Rugged, lightweight aluminum construction, built for repeated use.
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Manufactured to tight tolerances (± 5 μm or ± 0.0002 in), for precision in mils or microns versions.
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Protective leather pouch included to preserve gauge integrity between uses.
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Multiple models to match different uncured powder ranges (from very thin to heavy powder layers).
Technical Specifications
Comparison Table
| Model | Teeth Heights (4 steps) | Best For Powder Range / Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Model 1 (mils) | 3, 6, 9, 12 mils | Very light powder layers; thin coatings on small parts |
| Model 2 (mils) | 10, 15, 20, 25 mils | Medium powder application – automotive and industrial panels |
| Model 3 (mils) | 20, 30, 40, 50 mils | Heavier powder loads on larger parts or thicker coatings |
| Model 4 (µm) | 75, 150, 225, 300 µm | Metric equivalent of light-medium loads; precise manufacturing work |
| Model 5 (µm) | 250, 375, 500, 625 µm | Medium-heavy powder layers |
| Model 6 (µm) | 500, 750, 1000, 1250 µm | Very thick powder coats; heavy industrial applications |
FAQ’s
How do I read the Powder Comb?
Slide it through uncured powder. The highest tooth that has powder sticking and leaves a mark indicates one side of the range; the next higher tooth (no powder) marks the upper boundary. E.g., if the 150 µm tooth and lower are marked, but the 225 µm isn’t, the powder thickness is between 150-225 µm.
Does curing affect the actual film thickness?
Yes — most powders shrink or alter slightly during curing. A rule of thumb is that the final cured film may be ≈ 50% of the dry (uncured) thickness. Use the comb primarily for QC and estimation prior to full cure.
Which model should I use?
Pick the model whose tooth range straddles your expected powder thickness. If you have very light coating, use Model 1; for heavy coatings, use Models 5 or 6.
Which units are used?
Both imperial (mils) and metric (microns) versions are available. Use whichever your site or contract specifies to avoid conversion errors.
Do I need calibration or electronics?
No—this is a fully mechanical gauge. It doesn’t need batteries or calibration adjustments; use it visually. But keeping the gauge clean and the stand-offs aligned improves accuracy.
What surfaces/substrates work?
Works on any substrate where powder adheres—metal, plastic, wood, glass. Stand-offs help ensure proper alignment even on irregular shapes.
Still need help?
If you experience an issue, check our troubleshooting guide or contact our support team directly. As a DeFelsko Authorised Service Centre (DASC), DFT Instruments provides calibration, repair, and technical assistance locally in the UK.
What’s Included:
- Powder Comb gauge (select model)
- Protective leather pouch
- Instructions for proper use and reading
- (Optional) Chart with mils/microns equivalent for reference
Check Your Powder Thickness Before It’s Too Late
Ensure perfect coating results every time with the Powder Comb—a simple, precise way to verify uncured powder thickness before curing.
📞 To enquire about this product, contact our team today on: 01442 879494 or Complete the form.