Adhesion Testing: Pull-Off Adhesion Tester and Dolly Tester

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Learn how to use a pull-off adhesion tester and a dolly tester to test the adhesion of coatings and adhesives

Introduction

Adhesion testing is an important part of quality control in the construction and manufacturing industries. It involves measuring the strength of the bond between two materials, such as a coating and a substrate. There are several methods for adhesion testing, and two common ones are the pull-off adhesion tester and the dolly tester.

Pull-Off Adhesion Tester

A pull-off adhesion tester is a device that uses a hydraulic cylinder to apply a tensile force to a coating or adhesive. It measures the maximum force that can be applied before the coating or adhesive fails and separates from the substrate. To use a pull-off adhesion tester, follow these steps:

1. Clean and dry the surface to be tested. Remove any dirt, dust, or moisture that could interfere with the adhesion test.
2. Apply the coating or adhesive according to the manufacturer's instructions. Allow it to dry or cure for the recommended amount of time.
3. Affix the tester to the coating or adhesive using the appropriate bonding agent. Make sure the tester is securely attached and level.
4. Activate the tester and apply the tensile force. The tester will measure the maximum force before the coating or adhesive fails and separates from the substrate.
5. Record the results of the test and compare them to the specifications for the coating or adhesive. If the results fall within the acceptable range, the coating or adhesive is considered to have good adhesion.

Paint inspector is testing pull-off adhesion (dolly) test for coating. This measured pull-off force provides a direct indication of the strength of adhesion between the coating and the substrate.

Dolly Tester

A dolly tester, also known as a scrape adhesion tester, is a device that uses a scraper or blade to apply a shear force to a coating or adhesive. It measures the amount of force required to detach the coating or adhesive from the substrate. To use a dolly tester, follow these steps:

1. Clean and dry the surface to be tested. Remove any dirt, dust, or moisture that could interfere with the adhesion test.
2. Apply the coating or adhesive according to the manufacturer's instructions. Allow it to dry or cure for the recommended amount of time.
3. Place the dolly on top of the coating or adhesive and apply the scraper or blade to the surface. Slowly increase the force until the coating or adhesive begins to detach from the substrate.
4. Record the results of the test and compare them to the specifications for the coating or adhesive. If the results fall within the acceptable range, the coating or adhesive is considered to have good adhesion.

Complete Tutorial of Adhesion Tester and Dolly Tester

Conclusion

In conclusion, adhesion testing is a vital part of quality control for coatings and adhesives in the construction and manufacturing industries. The pull-off adhesion tester and the dolly tester are two commonly used methods for measuring the strength of the bond between materials. By following the steps outlined in this article, manufacturers and contractors can ensure that their products and projects have good adhesion and will stand the test of time.

Complete Practical Tutorial of Adhesion Testing. (Mechanical)