Thickness Gauges

Thickness gauges are digital or LCD tools used for taking thickness measurements on parts, materials or coatings in a range of situations. Typically used in engineering, thickness gauges either use a mechanical jaw that is closed and reset to zero, then opened to fit around the material or part and then a readout is given of the measurement reading. Our range of thickness gauges is of the highest quality and sourced from leading brands such as Mitutoyo, Sauter, and RS PRO.

Types of Thickness Gauges

Different applications demand specific measurement capabilities:

Ultrasonic-Based Devices:

Ultrasonic Thickness Gauge: Uses sound waves to measure thickness, offering a non-destructive method to assess material integrity.
Mini Thickness Gauge: It's a portable thickness measurement device ideal for use in limited spaces and on the go.

Digital Gauges:

Digital Thickness Gauge: Provides accurate readings and offers additional features like data logging.

Coating Thickness Gauge: Measures non-magnetic and insulation coatings on ferrous and non-ferrous materials.

Benefits of Thickness Gauges

Thickness gauges offer significant advantages:

Non-Destructive Testing: Allows inspections without damaging material or coating integrity, preserving your products.
High-Level Accuracy: Delivers reliable and precise results, ensuring dependable critical measurements.
Clear Digital Display: Modern digital thickness gauges provide instant, easy-to-read measurements on their LCD screens, reducing interpretation errors.
Single-Sided Access: Ultrasonic thickness gauge models require access from only one side, simplifying complex measurements.
Simple and Quick to Use: User-friendly, allowing for rapid, efficient measurements.

How a Thickness Gauge Works

Thickness gauges are thickness measurement instrument tools, with their operation varying based on type, though all aim to provide accurate dimensional readings.

Ultrasonic Thickness Gauges

These common devices, often handheld, operate by measuring the time it takes for a sound wave to travel through a material. An ultrasonic thickness gauge or ultrasonic thickness tester emits a sound pulse from its transducer, which then travels through the material to its rear surface and reflects back to the gauge. The device then calculates the material's thickness based on the elapsed time and the known speed of sound within that specific material. This method offers non-destructive testing and often requires single-sided access.

Mechanical and Digital Thickness Gauges

Other types of thickness gauges work through direct physical contact. A digital thickness gauge or a mechanical thickness meter typically involves a movable jaw or probe that closes around the material or coating. Once the object is securely held, the measurement is displayed, either on an analogue dial or a clear digital LCD screen. This approach is common for precise measurement of parts or coatings.

Applications of Thickness Gauges

Thickness gauges are indispensable thickness measurement instrument tools, providing crucial insights where precise material assessment is critical across various industries:

Automotive and Vehicle Industry

They're widely used to measure metal panels, inspect windscreen glass, and identify imperfections in bodywork. Specialist tools, such as coating thickness gauges, ensure even paint application, while ultrasonic models are ideal for detecting hidden flaws beneath the surface.

Engineering and Manufacturing

In manufacturing and engineering, precision matters. Thickness gauges are essential for quality control, ensuring each component meets exact specifications. They're particularly important for safety-critical parts, like those used in aircraft, where consistency and compliance are non-negotiable.

Construction and Infrastructure

On construction sites, thickness gauges are indispensable. They assess the integrity of walls, piping, and building materials, helping to detect early signs of wear or corrosion. In infrastructure, they're crucial for checking the condition of structural supports, such as bridge columns, to maintain safety and regulatory compliance over time.

Specialised Material Analysis

Beyond industrial use, thickness gauges serve highly specialised fields. Jewellers rely on them to measure the thickness of precious metals and identify hidden cores. In the medical sector, coating thickness gauges help ensure surgical instruments meet hygiene and safety standards.

How to Choose the Right Thickness Gauge

Selecting the ideal thickness gauge is vital for achieving reliable and precise measurements. To find the best thickness measurement instrument for your work, consider these key factors:

Accuracy, Resolution, and Range: Assess the required accuracy and the smallest increment you need to detect. Ensure the gauge's minimum and maximum measurement capabilities cover the work you are undertaking to have the best tool for the job.
Measurement Method and Gauge Type: Your material and access influence choice. For example, an ultrasonic thickness tester is suitable for non-destructive, single-sided access, while a coating thickness gauge is essential for coatings. Meanwhile, other digital thickness gauges or mechanical thickness meters are best for direct contact.
Material Compatibility: Verify the thickness measurement device is suitable for your sample material, as some gauges are material-specific while others are versatile.
Display and Usability: Choose a display that suits your working environment—digital thickness gauges provide clear, immediate readings, making them ideal for fast, accurate results. For on-site or fieldwork, a handheld ultrasonic thickness meter offers the perfect combination of portability, ease of use, and reliable performance.

How to Order Thickness Gauges From RS Hong Kong?

Here at RS Hong Kong, we support engineers with quality products and technical information, helping you find the right thickness gauge for your application. As a trusted supplier, we offer an extensive range, including ultrasonic thickness gauge models and digital thickness gauge options from leading brands like Kern, Extech, and Moore & Wright.

To make a purchase, simply add your chosen thickness measurement device to your basket and proceed to our secure checkout.

How Delivery Works at RS Hong Kong

Benefit from RS Hong Kong's comprehensive delivery service for your high-accuracy thickness gauge needs and other vital equipment, such as roughness testers and thermal calibrators.

After checkout, your order is swiftly processed and dispatched through our established distribution channels. Furthermore, you can conveniently track your delivery via your RS Online account, confirming its arrival at your specified location throughout Hong Kong.

To know more about our delivery options and fees, refer to our Delivery page.