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Testex Tape

Testex Press-o-film replica tape

£35 + VAT

Press-O-Film Replica Tape for Blast Profile Measurement

Testex® Press-O-Film® replica tape measures the peak-to-valley surface profile of blast-cleaned steel. Burnishing the foam against the prepared surface produces an impression that can be measured using a Testex micrometer or PosiTector RTR replica tape reader.

DFT Instruments supplies genuine Testex tape from DeFelsko, with UK advice on grades, compatible instruments and accessories. Choose from Coarse, X-Coarse and other profile ranges to suit your inspection requirements.

Each carton contains 50 single-use impressions. The measured replica can be retained with your inspection report as a physical record of the tested surface.

Testex Replica Tape

Simple Surface Profile Testing

  • A direct measurement: capture the blasted profile in replica foam, then read the impression with a suitable instrument.
  • Straightforward handling: peel, position, burnish and measure.
  • A choice of grades: select the foam thickness that covers the profile required by your specification.
  • Compatible equipment: use a digital or analogue Testex micrometer or a PosiTector RTR.
  • Convenient cartons: 50 impressions for routine testing and repeat measurements.

Practical Inspection Records

  • Check coating preparation: compare the measured blast profile with the coating or project specification before painting.
  • Keep the evidence: label the impression with its location and retain it alongside the inspection results.
  • Test on site: suitable for steelwork, tanks and accessible curved surfaces such as pipework.
  • Follow the specified method: replica tape is addressed in ISO 8503-5, ASTM D4417 Method C and NACE SP0287.

Why Choose DFT?

  • DeFelsko experience since 1998: UK supply and advice from a team familiar with the inspection equipment.
  • Local instrument support: calibration and repairs through our DeFelsko Authorised Service Centre.
  • Equipment selection: guidance on tape grades, micrometers, readers and burnishing tools.
  • Ordering assistance: contact our UK team to discuss quantities, current availability and delivery.

Testex Tape Features & Performance

  • A physical replica: the foam records the texture of the blasted surface for measurement and later reference.
  • Updated strip format: the established Coarse and X-Coarse foam and backing are retained in easier-to-handle strips.
  • Easier opening and removal: peel tabs and a removal corner help with handling; the carton opens and closes for storage.
  • Recyclable packaging: the carton is fully recyclable.
  • High-temperature formulation: suitable for surface temperatures up to 60°C.
  • No stated expiry date: the tape has a long shelf life.
  • Several measurement options: choose a micrometer for profile height or a compatible reader for digital records.
  • Optical grade option: available for surface imaging using a PosiTector RTR 3D.

Testex Tape Accuracy and Precision

DeFelsko publishes the following performance figures for its current method:

Grade Precision Accuracy
Coarse ±2 µm ±8 µm
X-Coarse ±6 µm ±8 µm
X-Coarse Plus ±8 µm ±10 µm

These figures require the specified procedure, High Accuracy Burnishing Tool, converted readings and at least two measurements per location. They do not apply automatically to every burnishing technique.

TESTEX REPLICA TAPE

Testex Tape Grades, Ranges & Order Codes

Select the grade using the expected profile height. Conventional grades cover 12–150 µm across the range.

Grade Profile range Carton code Six-carton code Enquiry
Coarse Minus 12–25 µm / 0.5–1.0 mils RTCMIN Not listed Enquire
Coarse 20–50 µm / 0.8–2.0 mils RTC RTC6 Enquire
X-Coarse 40–115 µm / 1.5–4.5 mils RTXC RTXC6 Enquire
X-Coarse Plus 100–150 µm / 4.0–6.0 mils RTXCPLUS RTXCPLUS6 Enquire

Six-carton packs contain 300 impressions, a High Accuracy Burnishing Tool and a quick guide.

Should I Choose Coarse or X-Coarse?

Coarse covers 20–50 µm; X-Coarse covers 40–115 µm. For a specified profile of 75 µm, choose X-Coarse. Within overlapping ranges, use the procedure appropriate to your tape and instrument.

Legacy Coarse and X-Coarse rolls remain supported. Let us know if you specifically require the roll format.

Optical-Grade Replica Tape (for 3D Measurements)

Grade / code Peak-height range (H) 2D/3D range Reader
Optical Grade X-Coarse / RTXCOG 40–115 µm 10–115 µm PosiTector RTR 3D

Choose optical grade when surface imaging and 2D/3D analysis are required. It provides better-quality surface data files than conventional tape for this application. Enquire about optical grade tape.

How to Use Testex Tape

prepare for replica tape test

Prepare the Surface

Choose a representative location and remove loose dust, debris and residual blasting media with cleaning putty or another suitable method. Select a tape grade covering the expected profile height.

burnish

Burnish the Tape

Peel off one strip and secure it to the surface. Work the burnishing tool over the foam until the impression is complete. Use the technique specified for your tool; excessive force can distort the result.

measure with testex replica tape

Remove and Measure

Remove the tape, check the impression and centre it between the clean measuring anvils. Account for the 50 µm backing layer and apply any required conversion. Take repeat readings and record the result with the grade and location.

Download the full Testex instructions.

Testex Tape Accessories & Downloads

High Accuracy Burnishing Tool

The spring-controlled tool helps apply consistent force when forming the replica. Its order code is RTBURNISHHA. Ask our team about this tool when ordering tape for the current measurement procedure.

Cleaning and Verification Accessories

Surface cleaning putty helps remove loose material before testing. Verification shims can be used to check the measuring instrument; certified shim sets are available where traceable documentation is required.

Micrometers and Replica Tape Readers

For instrument specifications, model choices and micrometer kits, visit our Testex micrometer thickness gauges page.

Enquire about Testex tape or tape accessories

Technical Downloads

Testex Replica Tape FAQs

How many impressions are in a carton?

Each carton contains 50 single-use impressions. Multiple impressions may be required at a measurement location, so one carton does not necessarily represent 50 completed inspection locations.

Does the tape itself need calibration?

The tape does not need calibration. The measuring instrument must be checked and maintained in accordance with its instructions and your quality procedure. Suitable verification shims are available for micrometers and readers.

How long can impressions be stored?

A measured impression can be retained as a physical record of the tested surface. Label it with the location and result, and keep it clean, dry and protected from damage alongside your inspection documentation.

Is the new strip tape different from the older rolls?

Coarse and X-Coarse retain the established replica foam and backing. The main changes are the strip layout, peel tabs and carton packaging. The X-Coarse Plus strip range covers 100–150 µm.

Can I reuse a piece of Testex tape?

Each strip forms one impression. Use fresh tape for another test or location, and keep the measured replica if it is needed for your records.

Which grade should I use?

Match the expected profile to the grade ranges in the table. Coarse is for lower profiles, X-Coarse covers 40–115 µm and X-Coarse Plus covers 100–150 µm. Ask our team if you need help selecting the grade for your specification.

Can the Testex tape be used on curved or irregular surfaces?

Yes, replica tape can be used on accessible curved surfaces, including pipework. The surface and access must allow a properly burnished impression. Follow the appropriate procedure for the surface shape and burnishing tool.

Is replica tape recognised by international standards?

Replica tape is addressed by ISO 8503-5, ASTM D4417 Method C and NACE SP0287. Follow the applicable edition and the project requirements for sampling, measurement and reporting.

Do I need to subtract the backing thickness?

The 50 µm backing must be accounted for. A correctly configured digital instrument can do this automatically; otherwise follow the manual method and conversion guidance. Do not subtract the backing a second time if it has already been compensated for.

How long does a measurement take?

Many replicas can be produced quickly, but the correct burnishing time depends on the profile. Complete the impression as instructed rather than stopping at a fixed time limit.

Need help choosing Testex tape?
Our UK team can advise on grades, readers and accessories. As a DeFelsko Authorised Service Centre, DFT Instruments also provides local calibration and repair support for measuring instruments.

Testex Tape Supply Options

  • Individual cartons: 50 impressions in your selected grade.
  • Six-carton packs: available for Coarse, X-Coarse and X-Coarse Plus.
  • Tape accessories: ask about burnishing tools, cleaning putty and verification shims.

Tell us the grade or order code and quantity you require. We will confirm the price, availability and supplied contents. Micrometers and readers are separate unless included in the quoted kit.

For pricing and ordering advice, call 01442 879494 or complete the enquiry form.

Testex Press-O-Film Replica Tape Price

PRICE £35

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