Description
The TQC Sheen Automatic Scratch Tester is a precision instrument designed to evaluate the resistance of coatings to scratching under controlled and repeatable conditions. It is widely used in laboratories and quality control environments to assess coating performance, adhesion and durability.
The instrument applies a progressively increasing or constant load to a stylus that moves across the coated surface. As the load increases, the coating is stressed until visible damage or failure occurs. This allows users to determine critical parameters such as scratch resistance, adhesion strength and coating cohesion.
Thanks to its automated operation, the tester eliminates operator variability and ensures highly consistent and reproducible results. The intuitive interface allows users to easily set test parameters such as load, speed and scratch length.
Suitable for a wide range of coatings—including paints, varnishes, lacquers and protective coatings—the Automatic Scratch Tester provides valuable insights into coating performance during development, production and quality control.
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Why Scratch Testing Matters
Scratch resistance is a key indicator of coating performance and durability. Testing helps to:
- Evaluate coating adhesion and cohesion
- Detect weaknesses in coating formulations
- Compare performance between different coating systems
- Ensure compliance with specifications
- Improve product quality and durability
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How It Works
- Secure the coated test panel onto the sample stage.
- Select the appropriate stylus and test parameters (load, speed, distance).
- Start the automated test sequence.
- The stylus moves across the surface (35mm/s) while applying the defined load.
- Depending on standard/testing method observe or record the point at which coating failure occurs.
- Analyse the scratch track to determine resistance and critical load values.
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Key Features & Benefits
- Fully automated scratch testing for high repeatability
- Adjustable test parameters (load, speed and stroke length)
- Supports constant and progressive load testing
- Accurate evaluation of adhesion, cohesion and scratch resistance
- User-friendly interface with intuitive controls
- Suitable for a wide range of coating types
- Reduces operator influence and human error
- Ideal for R&D, quality control and production environments
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Scope of Supply
- Automatic Scratch Tester unit
- ISO1518-1 20 N set of weights: 2 x 0,5 N, 1 x 1,0 N, 2 x 2 N, 1 x 4 N and 1 x 10 N and one weight holder pin
- 1 mm Stylus with Hemispherical 0.5 mm radius (tungsten carbide for excellent durability and precision)
- Power Supply
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Accessories
- Various Sizes TQC Sheen Test Panels
- CSTSP0150 TQC Sheen Spare 0.5mm Radius Stylus A
- CSTSH4811 TQC Sheen Weight Set (ISO 1518) for Mechanized Scratch Test Tester
- CSTSH4783 TQC Sheen Weight Set for Mechanized Scratch Test Tester*
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Manufacturing and Standards
The TQC Sheen Automatic Scratch Tester is manufactured by TQC Sheen, part of Industrial Physics, and is engineered for reliable and repeatable coating performance testing.
The instrument supports testing in line with internationally recognised standards, including:
This ensures consistent and standardised evaluation of coating scratch resistance across laboratories and industrial applications.
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Links
TQC Sheen Automatic Scratch Tester | Product Sheet
TQC Sheen Automatic Scratch Tester | Video
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