What is Coatings Inspection?

Coatings Inspection is a Quality Control process by which to ensure that Coating Specifications are adhered to, as well as a method to evaluate coating application and condition. Quality Control is properly carried out when Coatings Inspection procedures are performed before and during Coating Application in order to control the quality of the finished product. Coating Inspection done only after coating application amounts to "damage control".

Steps involved in Coatings Inspection include checking surface preparation to determine surface profile and ensure that the surface is free from contaminants such as soluble salts, amine blush, rust, and oil, followed by observation of Coating Application. The Coating Inspector will confirm that the correct coating is mixed properly, applied properly, and according to the specification for both the job and the coating used.

Determination of ambient and surface temperatures, relative humidity, and dewpoint are crucial steps in Coatings Inspection to prevent against coating failure.

After application, a Visual Inspection is made to assess for runs, sags, foreign inclusions, missed areas, or other obvious physical defects in the applied coating. It may be necessary to perform porosity detection tests to identify holes, bubbles, or other discontinuities in the cured coating. Dry Film Thickness is measured using mechanical or electronic dry film thickness gauges to ensure adequate coverage according to specifications. Coating adhesion tests may also need to be performed to ensure that the finished project conforms to all applicable requirements.

In a Multiple-Layer Coating System, each layer of coating applied is inspected with the same rigour, to ensure a quality product that conforms to contractual specifications.

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