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Elcometer 345

Coating Thickness Gauge

Operating Instructions

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Equipment described in these instructions is covere d by the following Patents:FNF UK Patent No: GB2306009B and FNF US Patent No: 5886522Simple Statistics Patent Applications: UK No. 9903992.7, GmbH No. 19945836.7

This product meets the Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive.The product is Class B, Group 1 ISM equipment according to CISPR 11

Group 1 ISM product: A product in which there is intentionally generated and/or used conductively coupled radio-frequency energy which is necessary for the internal functioning of the equipment itself.Class B product are suitable for use in domestic establishments and in establishments directly connected to a lowvoltage power supply network which supplies buildings used for domestic purposes.

and are registered trademarks of Elcometer Limited.All other trademarks acknowledged.© Copyright Elcometer Limited. 2009.All rights reserved. No part of this Document may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored (in a retrieval systemor otherwise) or translated into any language, in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical, magnetic, optical,manual or otherwise) without the prior written permission of Elcometer Limited.A copy of this Instruction Manual is available for download on our Website via www.elcometer.com.

Doc No. TMA-0431 Issue 03Text with Cover No. 20607

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CONTENTS

Section Page

1 About your gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51.1 Gauge features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61.2 Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61.3 What the box contains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

2 Getting started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82.1 Fitting batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82.2 Low battery voltage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82.3 Fitting the Harness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92.4 Connecting the Separate Probe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92.5 Switching the gauge on/off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102.6 Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102.7 Changing units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102.8 Key-Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102.9 Backlight Operation: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112.10 Simple Statistics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112.11 Delete Last Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

3 Quick Operation Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

4 Taking a measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

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5 Calibration adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165.1 Calibration Adjustment Error . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165.2 Calibration Adjustment for Smooth Surfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175.3 Special Calibration Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 185.4 The Correction Value Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195.5 To Recall The Factory Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

6 Statistical summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216.1 Statistics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216.2 Displaying Statistical Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216.3 Clearing Statistical Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 226.4 Setting The User List For Statistical Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 236.5 Example of Statistical User List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

7 Data Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

8 Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

9 Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

10 Error Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

11 Technical specification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

12 Probes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

13 Spares and accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

14 Related equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

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Thank you for your purchase of this Elcometer 345 Coating Thickness Gauge. Welcome to Elcometer.

Elcometer are world leaders in the design, manufacture and supply of inspection equipment for coatingsand concrete. Our products cover all aspects of coating inspection, from development through applicationto post application inspection.

The Elcometer 345 Coating Thickness Gauge is a world beating product. With the purchase of this gaugeyou now have access to the worldwide service and support network of Elcometer. For more information visitour website: www.elcometer.com

1 ABOUT YOUR GAUGE

The Elcometer 345 Coating Thickness Gauge is a hand-heldcoating thickness gauge for fast and accurate measurement of thethickness of coatings on metal substrates.

The gauge is available either with a built-in integral probe or with aseparate probe.

The gauge can be switched to display metric (µm/mm) or imperial(mils) units of measurement.

Your gauge was calibrated at the factory, however you can adjustthe calibration using the set of calibration foils supplied with thegauge.

The Elcometer 345 Coating Thickness Gauge is powered byinternal dry cell batteries.

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Elcometer345 withIntegral

Probe

Elcometer 345 withSeparate Probe

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1.1 GAUGE FEATURES

• User adjustable calibration

• Switchable between metric and imperial units

• Bleep (when valid reading taken)

• Infrared data output (to mini-printer)

• Simple Statistics

1.2 STANDARDSThe Elcometer 345 can be used in accordance with the following National andInternational Standards, ASTM B 499, ASTM D 1186-B, ASTM G 12, BS 3900 (C5), BS 5411 (11), DIN 50981, IMOMCS.215 (82/84), IMO MSC.244(83), ISO 1461, ISO 2063, IS0 2808-7C, ISO 2808-12, ISO 19840, NF T30-124, SSPC-

PA2 (2004).For IMO, PSPCa, the thickness coating, should be measured and recorded. Your Elcometer 345 can beused for this.

1.3 WHAT THE BOX CONTAINS

• Elcometer 345 Coating Thickness Gauge with batteries fitted

• Set of calibration foils

• Neck harness

• Carrying case

• Operating instructions

a. International Marine Organisation, Performance Standard for Protective Coatings.

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The Elcometer 345 Coating Thickness Gauge is packed in a cardboard and foam package. Please ensurethat this packaging is disposed of in an environmentally sensitive manner. Consult your local EnvironmentalAuthority for further guidance.

To maximise the benefits of your new Elcometer 345 Coating Thickness Gauge please take some time to re adthese Operating Instructions. Do not hesitate to co ntact Elcometer or your Elcometer supplier if you h ave anyquestions.

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2 GETTING STARTED

Note: Before you use your gauge for the first time, remove the paper strip from the battery compartment.

2.1 FITTING BATTERIES

The Elcometer 345 may be used with dry cell batteries or rechargeable batteries. 2 x LR03 (AAA) alkalinebatteries are supplied with the gauge. To fit or replace batteries:

1. Switch off the gauge.

2. Lift off battery compartment cover at rear of gauge.

3. Place batteries in the battery clips ensuring correct polarity.

4. Replace battery compartment cover.

Note: Remove the batteries from the gauge if it is to remain unusedfor a long period of time. This will prevent damage to the gauge inthe event of malfunction of the batteries.

2.2 LOW BATTERY VOLTAGE

When the battery voltage is low the battery symbol illuminates onthe display. The gauge will still function but new batteries arerecommended.

When the battery symbol flashes and the gauge beeps every tenseconds, the batteries must be replaced.

When the batteries are exhausted, the gauge will beep three times and then switch off.

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2.3 FITTING THE HARNESS

Your gauge is supplied with a neck harness which should bethreaded through the bracket on the side of the gauge as shown.

2.4 CONNECTING THE SEPARATE PROBE

The Elcometer 345 separate probe gauge has a 4-pin socket at thebase of the gauge. Line up the 2 red marks when inserting the plug.

To disconnect a probe, pull on the outer knurled sleeve of the plug- do not twist. This will release the lock that prevents the plug frombeing pulled out of the socket accidentally.

• Do not operate the Elcometer 345 without a probe connected.

• Do not remove the probe while the instrument is switched on.

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2.5 SWITCHING THE GAUGE ON/OFF

To switch on, press .

Gauges with an integral probe will switch on automatically by placing the probe against a hard surface.

To switch off, press and hold until OFF is displayed.

The gauge will switch off automatically after one minute of inactivity.

2.6 DISPLAY

The display will show the measurement value.

In addition, a number of symbols can appear on the display:

2.7 CHANGING UNITS

To change the units of measurement displayed on the screen(µm/mm or mils):

With the gauge switched on, press . The symbol on the display will start to flash. Press . Theunits will change. To change units again, repeat these steps.

2.8 KEY-LOCK

The gauge is fitted with a ‘Key-Lock’ feature, which is a form of password, to prevent accidental operationof calibration adjustment - see “Calibration adjustment” on page 16.

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2.9 BACKLIGHT OPERATION:

Elcometer 345 gauges have a backlit display. The backlight is designed for low light operations and can beturned on and off via the keypad. Turning the backlight off will save battery power.

To toggle the backlight on/off, press and release . The symbol will flash on the display. Press andrelease once more. The will stop flashing and the backlight will be toggled on or off.

When switched on, the backlight comes on when a reading is taken and remains on for 3 seconds.

2.10 SIMPLE STATISTICS

This feature is normally switched off when the gauge is dispatched from the factory.

Your gauge can display statistical summary information in a preset sequence. The user can select any valuein any sequence from the list of five values, plus an OFF option - see “Statistical summary” on page 21.

2.11 DELETE LAST READING

This operation will only delete the last reading taken. Previous readings can not be deleted individually.

To delete the last reading from the statistical calculations when the statistics feature is switched on, pressand hold for more than 2 seconds but less than 4 seconds. The display will show dEL. Release to delete the last reading,

Note: If is held for longer than 4 seconds, dEL will change to OFF. Releasing will switch thegauge off and the last reading will not be deleted - see “Switching the gauge on/off” on page 10.Switch on and try again.

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3 QUICK OPERATION GUIDE

Switch on or

Switch off >>>> >>>>

Metric <=> English

>>>> µm or mm <=> mil

Calibration adjustment for Smooth Substrates

>>>> >>>> >>>> >>>> to set.

separategauges

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4 seconds

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bare metalon

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on foil

>4 seconds

oradjust to foil

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Calibration adjustment for Rough and Special Substrates

>>>> >>>> >>>> >>>>

>>>> to set >>>> >>>> >>>>

>>>> to set.

Set User List for Statistical Values

>>>> >>>> >>>> keep pressing until first statistic

wanted appears, then press to accept. Repeat for all statistics wanted. Press to set.

View Statistics >>>> etc. to view each statistic

To Clear Statistical Data

>>>> >>>> >>>> >>>> to clear, to retain

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on thin foil

>4 seconds

oradjust to foil

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on thick foil

>4 seconds

oradjust to foil

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To Turn Statistical Data ‘Off’

>>>> >>>> >>>> >>>> until

>>>> >>>> Stats off

Print Data Output

Align IR’s >>>> >>>>

to continue measurements

To Reset Factory Calibration

>>>> to adjust to 10 µm (0.5 mil) [or 100 µm (4.0 mil) for scales F2

and F3] >>>> >>>> >>>> to clear 1 Err and reset factory

calibration.

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bare metalon

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4 TAKING A MEASUREMENT

Before starting to take measurements it is good practice to check the performance of the gauge using thecalibration adjustment procedure - see “Calibration adjustment” on page 16.

1. Hold the gauge with the probe pressedfirmlyb against the surface you aremeasuring.

2. The display will blinkc and then display thecoating thickness.

If required, this reading can be adjusted forthe conditions of the measurement - see“Calibration adjustment” on page 16.

If the following display appears

the value is just greater than the range ofthe gauge, or the gauge is out ofcalibration.

b. The reading may be inaccurate if the probe is not held flat against the surface.c. If the display does not blink then the gauge has not recognised that the probe is on the surface, usually because the

coating is much too thick for the range of the gauge.

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Integral probe

Separate probe

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5 CALIBRATION ADJUSTMENT

The Elcometer 345 should be adjusted before use, or at least checked to ensure that the calibrationadjustment is correct for the conditions of use.

Calibration adjustment should be carried out with the appropriate probe, on the same type of metal, thesame curvature and similar surface finish as that of the item to be measured. It is best to use an uncoateditem that is similar to the coated item to be tested.

When the gauge is shipped from the factory it comes with a preset calibration. See “To Recall The FactoryCalibration” on page 20 for instructions on how to restore this calibration.

5.1 CALIBRATION ADJUSTMENT ERROR

If an error message 1 Err is displayed during adjustment it indicates that the adjustment has not taken placecorrectly. This may be due to incorrect substrate, incorrect values or units, etc. Press to cancel theerror message. This will automatically restore the gauge to the factory calibration setting. Check and repeatthe adjustment procedure. See “To Recall The Factory Calibration” on page 20 for a method to deliberatelyreset the factory calibration setting.

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5.2 CALIBRATION ADJUSTMENT FOR SMOOTH SURFACES

Use this calibration adjustment procedure for measurements on smooth, flat surfaces.

Note: The key-lock feature requires the keys used to access these routines to be pressed for 4 secondsbefore any response is made. This is to prevent accidental operation.

1. Place the probe on the bare metal, wait for a reading to be displayed. Lift the probe from the surface.

2. Press and hold for 4 seconds to set the display to zero. The bleeper will sound to indicate theinstruction has been accepted.

3. Place the calibration foil closest to the thickness to be measured on the baremetal surface and take a reading.

Note: If the probe is left on the bare substrate or moved quickly to the calibrationfoil the display will show a sequence of three ‘rising’ ‘-’ symbols and sound aseries of bleeps as a warning. The probe must be lifted into free air before takinga measurement on the calibration foil.

4. Press or for more than 4 seconds to adjust the display to thecalibration foil value, When close to the correct reading, a few quick presses of

or will step to the correct reading. If the statistics feature is switchedon, the display will show one of the statistical values (“Statistical summary” onpage 21). After 4 seconds C appears in the left-hand side of the display and thevalue will start to change. The bleeper will sound to indicate that the calibrationroutine has been started.

5. When the value in the display is correct, press to accept the newcalibration or wait 7 seconds for the gauge to accept the calibration automatically. The display will blinkthen re-display the reading. The bleeper will sound to indicate acceptance of the new calibration.

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6. Confirm that the gauge reads correctly at zero and at the calibration foil value. If required thecalibration adjustment can be repeated to ensure its accuracy.

To re-adjust the gauge, repeat all the steps in Section 5.2.

Note: As well as calibration foils, certified coated standards are available - see “Spares and accessories”on page 32.

5.3 SPECIAL CALIBRATION ADJUSTMENT

Use this calibration adjustment procedure for measurements on rough surfaces, small diameters, specialsteel alloys, thin substrates below 300 µm (0.012"), etc.

Two calibration foils are required; one below the thickness to be measured (the thin foil) and one above (thethick foil).

Note: In this routine if, after the key-lock feature is operated, 7 seconds elapses without pressing a key ortaking a reading, the gauge will automatically continue to the next step, i.e. the gauge will move from lowcalibration CLO to high calibration CH1 or from high calibration to measurement mode.

1. Switch the gauge on and press , the symbol in the display will flash. Press and release tobegin the special calibration sequence. The display will show CLO (= Calibrate Low) and the roughsurface icon will flash at the rate of once per second.

2. Place the chosen thin calibration foil onto the bare metal surface.

3. Repeated measurements can now be taken on this foil and the display will show the accumulatedaverage of these readings. This is useful when there is significant variation from one reading to thenext, such as would occur on a rough surface or profile. Averaging a number of readings will give amore stable value and it is this average that should be adjusted for calibration.

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4. Press and hold or for more than 5 seconds to adjust this average to the foil value.

5. Press to accept the low calibration or wait 7 seconds to accept the calibration automatically.

The display will now show CH1 (= Calibrate High).

6. Place the chosen high calibration foil on the bare metal surface and take a number of readings until astable average is displayed.

7. Press and hold or for more than 4 seconds to adjust this average to the foil value.

8. Press to accept the calibration or wait 7 seconds for the gauge to accept the calibrationautomatically. The display will blink and then re-display the reading. The bleeper will sound 3 times toindicate that this routine is complete. will stop flashing and will remain visible on the display.

9. Confirm that the average gauge reading on each calibration foil is correct. An intermediate foilthickness can also be used to confirm the performance over the calibrated range.

The calibration values are stored in the gauge until new values are entered, even when the gauge isswitched off. on the display indicates the special calibration on switch on.

To re-calibrate, repeat the procedure. Re-calibrating using the smooth surface calibration method (see“Calibration Adjustment for Smooth Surfaces” on page 17) to set zero will remove from the display.

5.4 THE CORRECTION VALUE METHOD

The smooth surface adjustment method (see “Calibration Adjustment for Smooth Surfaces” on page 17)can be used for blast cleaned surfaces if a correction value is applied to each reading taken on theroughened surface.

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When coating thickness gauges are adjusted on a smooth surface, readings on a blast cleaned or otherwiseroughened surface will be high and the correction value must be subtracted from the reading to obtain thethickness of the coating,

The correction value is determined according to the roughness of the surface per ISO 8501, the SurfaceRoughness Comparator Elcometer 125. If the roughness of the surface under the coating is unknown adefault correction value of 25 µm (1.0 mil) is subtracted from each reading. For further details see EN19840'Paints and Varnishes - Corrosion protection of steel structures by protective paint systems - Measurementand acceptance criteria of the dry film thickness”.

5.5 TO RECALL THE FACTORY CALIBRATION

Set zero in the normal way. Then take a reading on the same bare substrate and adjust the gauge to read10 µm (0.5 mil). This will cause the gauge to display 1 Err. The factory setting will be recalled automaticallywhen is pressed to clear the error message.

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6 STATISTICAL SUMMARY

6.1 STATISTICS

The statistics display on the Elcometer 345 shows a preset combination of the five statistical functions whichmay be shown on the display in any user defined order by pressing one key. The feature is switched on byselecting at least one statistical value to be displayed - see “Setting The User List For Statistical Values” onpage 23. The feature is switched off by selecting OFF. The menu from which the list is created is as follows:

• Number of Readings taken

• Mean value of these Readings

• Standard deviation of these Readings

• Highest Reading taken

• Lowest Reading

• OFF (Switches the statistics off.)

6.2 DISPLAYING STATISTICAL VALUES

• To display a statistical value from the normal measurement mode, press and release or .This will display for 3 seconds either (+) the first statistical value in the user list or (-) the last statisticalvalue in the user list.

• If or is released within 4 seconds the gauge will display the value for a further 3 secondsduring which time or can be pressed again. If the key is held for more than 5 seconds thecalibration routine is activated.

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If is pressed the gauge displays the next statistical value on the user list for a minimum of 3seconds.

If is pressed the gauge displays the previous statistical value on the user list for a minimum of 3seconds.

• To display the rest of the list of values or must be pressed while the current value is on thedisplay.

• To exit the list press .

STATISTICAL SYMBOLS

= Number of readings

= Mean (Average)

= Standard Deviation

H = Highest reading

L = Lowest reading

6.3 CLEARING STATISTICAL DATA.

• To clear the statistical data when starting a new set of data press >>>> >>>> . Thedisplay will show CLs to indicate “Clear Statistics?”.

• Press to clear statistics memory or press to exit without clearing the statistics memory.

Note: 4 Err is displayed when the memory for statistical values is full.

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6.4 SETTING THE USER LIST FOR STATISTICAL VALUES

• To create a user list press >>>> >>>> . The display will show CLS to indicate 'ClearStatistics?'

• Press to enter the menu for setting the user list of statistical values. The gauge displays thesymbol of the first Statistics item on the statistics menu with its numerical position in the user list shownin the top left of the display. If the numeric display is blank then the statistic is not selected in thecurrent user list. (To exit from the setting menu and retain the current user list press . This returnsthe gauge to normal measurement mode.)

DISPLAY SYMBOLS

= Number of readings

= Average (Mean)

= Standard Deviation

= Highest reading

= Lowest reading

= Turn statistics off

F

F

F

F

LoF

Of fF

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• To enter the statistical value displayed at the next available position on the list press . If this is thefirst entry then the current user list is deleted and replaced with a new user list and it appears in thetop left of the display. This action also serves to switch the statistics feature on.

• To view the next statistical value on the user list press . Repeat presses of will scroll roundthe menu. Press to add the statistic value to the list. Press to exit menu or exit automaticallywhen all 5 items have been entered.

Selecting OFF and pressing will switch the statistics feature off.

6.5 EXAMPLE OF STATISTICAL USER LIST

To set statistics for Average, Lowest, Highest and Number of readings, in that order:

Press >>>> >>>>

Display will show CLS.

Keep pressing until is displayed, press to accept

Keep pressing until is displayed, press to accept

Keep pressing until is displayed, press to accept

Keep pressing until is displayed, press to accept

Press . The statistics are now set in this order.

F1

LoF2

F3

F4

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7 DATA OUTPUT

Your gauge is fitted with an infrared data output feature. This operates with the Infrared Portable Printer -see “Spares and accessories” on page 32 for sales part number. Ensure the Elcometer 345 is within500 mm of the printer, and that the Elcometer 345 IR LED is aligned with the IR detector on the printer.

PRINTING

To print the statistical values, press >>>> >>>> . The display will show PrF.

To print these values press >>>> again.

Press to return the gauge to measurement mode.

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8 STORAGE

This gauge incorporates a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD). If the display is heated above 50°C (120°F)it may be damaged. This can happen if the gauge is left in a car parked in strong sunlight.

Always store the gauge in its carrying pouch when it is not being used.

9 MAINTENANCE

You own one of the finest hand-held coating thickness gauges in the world. If looked after, it will last alifetime.

The gauge does not contain any user-serviceable components. In the unlikely event of a fault, the gaugeshould be returned to your local Elcometer supplier or directly to Elcometer. The warranty will be invalidatedif the instrument has been opened.

Regular calibration checks are a requirement of quality management procedures e.g. ISO 9000 and otherstandards. For gauge checks and certification contact Elcometer or your local Elcometer supplier.

Details of Elcometer offices around the world are given on the outside cover of these Operating Instructions.Alternatively visit the Elcometer website, www.elcometer.com

PROBES

The probe will wear with repeated use. Probe life depends on the number of measurements taken and themanner in which readings are taken. To extend probe life, always set the probe down so that it isperpendicular to the panel surface. Never drag the probe along the surface, as doing so will drasticallyreduce the life of the probe.

Replacement of integral probes must be carried out by Elcometer. Separate probes can be fitted by theuser.

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10 ERROR CODES

Press to clear error codes.

Error code Explanation

0 Err Unable to obtain a stable reading. This is either due to a very high electrical noise environment, beyond emc specification limits, or could indicate a gauge fault.

1 Err Calibration factors are out of range. Clear the error message and repeat the adjustment procedure.

2 Err Averaging error.

3 Err No readings taken for average calculation.

4 Err Statistics memory full.

5 Err Statistics overflow, more than 9,999 readings have been taken. Statistics data must be cleared (see Section 6.3) before further readings can be taken for statistical analysis.

6 Err Gauge over-range reading.

7 Err Memory hardware fault. Contact Elcometer or your local Elcometer supplier.

8 Err Gauge is not configured after repair. Contact Elcometer or your local Elcometer supplier.

9 Err The printer is off line, out of paper or printer or cable fault. Correct printer fault or press to cancel print function.

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11 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

Range: 0 µm to 1500 µm (0 mil to 60 mil)

Accuracy: ± 3% of the reading or ± 2.5 µm (0.1 mil)whichever is the greater.

± 1% of the reading or ± 2.5 µm (0.1 mil)whichever is the greater when calibrated close to the thickness to bemeasured.

Resolution, metric: 1 µmBelow 20 µm, 0.1 µm

Resolution, imperial: 0.1 milBelow 1 mil, 0.01 mil

Display: Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) 3½ Digits, Character height: 10 mm (0.4")

Operating Temperature: 0°C to 50°C (32°F to 120°F)

Dimensions: 56 mm x 24 mm x 120 mm (2.2" x 0.95" x 4.75")

Weight (incl. Dry Batteries): 115 gms. (4 oz).

Measurement speed: > 40 readings per minute.

Battery Type: 2 x LR03 (AAA), alkalined dry batteries or rechargeablee equivalents

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Battery Life: 30 to 40f hours continuous with alkaline dry batteries (15 000 to 20 000readings at an average of 8 readings per minute). Battery life is reducedwhen using the back light.

Minimum Substrate Thickness: 300 µm (12 mil) unless special adjustment is made - see section 5.3.Gauges will have reduced range when adjusted for thin substrates.

d. Alkaline batteries must be disposed of carefully to avoid environmental contamination. Please consult your localenvironmental authority for information on disposal in your region.Do not dispose of any batteries in fire.

e. Rechargeable batteries can be used if they are charged outside the gauge.f. Battery life is reduced to approximately 25% of the dry battery life when using rechargeable batteries. Follow the

instructions provided by the battery manufacturer when charging and disposing of rechargeable batteries.

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12 PROBES

Gauges with serial number TA---- onward are fitted with a new design of probes. The part numbers forreplacements for separate probes are shown in Table 1 on page 31.

Right Angle Probe Telescopic Probe

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Table 1: Probe part numbers

Scale Range Accuracy a ResolutionReplacement probe types b

Original probe no.

Current probe no.

F1 0 - 1500 µm ±3% or ±2.5 µm±1% or ±2.5 µmc

1 µmBelow 20 µm, 0.1 µm

F1 StandardF1 Right AngleF1 Telescopic

T3457286-T3457650-T3457651-

T34515844T34515845T34515846

0 - 60 mil ±3% or ±0.1 mil±1% or ±0.1 milc

0.1 milBelow 1 mil, 0.01 mil

a. Whichever is the greaterb. Separate probe versions onlyc. Whichever is the greater when calibrated close to the thickness to be measured.

Table 2: Probe capabilities

Probe TypeMinimum

Convex Surface Diameter

Minimum Concave

Surface RadiusHeadroom

Minimum Sample

DiameterCal Foil Value a

Separate

F1 4 mm (0.16") 25 mm (0.98") 85 mm (3.35") 4 mm (0.16") 250 µm (10 mil)

F1 Right Angle 4 mm (0.16") 25 mm (0.98") 25 mm (0.98") 4 mm (0.16") 250 µm (10 mil)

F1 Telescopic 4 mm (0.16") 25 mm (0.98") 30 mm (1.18") 4 mm (0.16") 250 µm (10 mil)

Integral F1 4 mm (0.16") 25 mm (0.98") 122 mm (4.8") 4 mm (0.16") 250 µm (10 mil)

a. This is the recommended maximum calibration foil value to achieve the specified accuracy under these measurementconditions.

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13 SPARES AND ACCESSORIES

The following spare parts and optional accessories are available from your local Elcometer supplier or directfrom Elcometer.

13.1 CALIBRATION FOIL SETS

Individual calibration foils and customised sets are also available. Consult your local Elcometer supplier.

13.2 CALIBRATION CERTIFICATES FOR CALIBRATION FOILS

Certificates traceable to National Standards including UKAS and NIST are available on request.

13.3 TEST CERTIFICATES

A certificate with results of a standard test on known calibration foil values over the full range of the probe.Order using sales part number TEST-345.

Set of µm mils Part number for set

8 foils 12, 25, 50, 125, 175, 250, 500, 1020 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 7, 10, 20, 40 T9904199F

3 foils 25, 250, 1020 1, 10, 40 T9904199G

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13.4 COATED THICKNESS STANDARDS INCLUDING CERTIFICA TE

13.5 INFRARED PORTABLE PRINTER

13.6 PROBE ADAPTORS

Ferrous Standard (4 Values): T995111261

Infrared Portable Printer: T99913877

Thermal Printer Paper: T99913878

Jumbo Hand Grip: T9997766-

V Adaptor for pipes: T9997381-

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13.7 HOLSTER

13.8 RAINCOAT

13.9 WRIST HARNESS

Integral Probe Version: T9999516-

Separate Probe Version: T3459515-

Protective gauge covers (pack of 5): T99913537

Wrist harness: T99916063

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14 RELATED EQUIPMENT

Elcometer produces a wide range of coating thickness gauges and associated paint inspection equipment.

Users of the Elcometer 345 may also benefit from the following Elcometer products:

• Elcometer 456 Coating Thickness Gauge

• Elcometer 406L Statistical Mini-Glossmeter

For further information contact Elcometer, your Elcometer supplier or visit the Elcometer website,www.elcometer.com

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15 INDEX

BBacklight 11Batteries

Fitting 8Life 29Low voltage 8Type 28

Blast cleaned surfaces 19

CCalibration adjustment 16

Error 16for Rough and Special Substrates 13Procedure 12Rough surfaces 18Small diameters 18Smooth surfaces 17Special steel alloys 18Thin substrates 18

Calibration certificates 32Coated thickness standards

Spares 33Contents of box 6Correction value 19

DData output 25Delete Last Reading 11Display symbols 10

EError codes 27

FFactory calibration 20Foils

Ordering 32

GGauge features 6

HHand grip, Jumbo 33Harness

Fitting 9Wrist (spare part) 34

Holster (belt) 34

IImperial units 10Infrared printer 33

KKey-Lock 10

MMaintenance 26Measurement 15Metric units 10

OOutputting data 25

PPrint Data Output 14Printer

Infrared 33Printing 25Probe

Connecting 9Probes 30

Adapters 33Wear of 26

Protection for gauge 34

QQuick Operation Guide 12

RRange

Warning 15Reset 14

SService 26Shims

Ordering 32Spare parts 32Standards 6

Coated thickness 33Statistics 11, 21

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Clearing 13, 22Displaying 21List of 13, 23Turning off 14

Storage 26Substrate thickness

Minimum 29Switching on/off 10

TTechnical specification 28Test certificates 32Thin substrates 18

UUnits

Changing 10

VV Adaptor, for pipes 33