elcometer PTG6 NDT Precision Material Thickness Gauges User Guide

June 4, 2024
elcometer

elcometer PTG6 NDT Precision Material Thickness Gauges

For the avoidance of doubt, please refer to the original English language version. Gauge Dimensions: 145 x 73 x 37mm (5.7 x 2.87 x 1.46″) – without transducer Gauge Weight: 210g (7.40z) – including batteries, without transducer
A Material Safety Data Sheet for the ultrasonic complaint supplied with the Elcometer PTG6 & PTG8 and available as an accessory is available to download via our website: www.elcometer.com/mages/stories/MSDS/Elcometer_Ultrasonic_Couplant_Blue.pdf Elcometer Limited 2015-2016. All rights reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored (in a retrieval system or 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

GAUGE OVERVIEW

  1. LED Indicators – Red (left), Green (right)
  2. LCD Display
  3. Softkeys
  4. On/Off Key
  5. Transducer Connection Point
  6. USB Data Output Socket (below cover)
  7. Battery Compartment (4 turns open/close)
  8. Wrist Strap Connection

BOX CONTENTS

  • Elcometer NDT Precision Material Thickness Gauge
  • 15MHz 1/4″ Microdot Right Angle Single Element Transducer with 9mm & 12mm Acrylic Delay lines (if ordered) Ultrasonic Couplant; 120ml (4f1 oz)
  • 2xAA Batteries
  • Protective Case
  • Transit Case
  • Wrist Harness
  • 3 x Screen Protector
  • ElcoMaster Software & USB Cable (PTG8 only)
  • Calibration Certificate
  • User Guide

USING THE GAUGE

  • Power: Batteries – PTG6, 8
  • including battery life indicator
  •  Bluetooth On – Grey: not paired; Orange: paired PTG6, 8
  •  Limits On (with Limits Index
  • Number) – Red: limit exceeded
  •  Measurement Mode-
  •  Interface Echo; E-E: Echo/Echo;
  • PLAS: Plastic Mode PTG6, 8
  •  Calibration Method PTG6,8
  •  Calibration: Sound-Velocity
  •  Batch Type – Sequential
  •  Reading Stability Indicator PTG6,8
  • Measurement Units mm, Inch PTG6,8
  •  Menu Softkey
  •  Display Softkey
  • Batch Softkey
  •  Save Current Copyfish
  •  Reading Valu
  • High-resolution PTG6, 8
  • User Selecta
  • Maximum of 8
  •  Batch Name – when in batching PTG8
  • Date & Time – when enabled and not in batching
  • power: USB PTG6,
  •  Scan Mode On – PTG8
  • icon flashes during a scan  Start/ Stop Scan- PTG8
  • when in Scan Mode  B-Scan PTG8
  •  Cell Reference- when in grid batching PTG8
  •  Reading Outside Calibration Warning On Batch Type-
  • Grid; increment direction: across PTG6,
  • Reading Value-
  • Low resolution; 0.1mm (0.01″)

GETTING STARTED

FITTING THE BATTERIES
Each gauge is supplied with 2 are alkaline batteries. To insert or replace the batteries:

  1. Lift the latch on the battery compartment cover and rotate anti-clockwise to remove the cover.
  2.  Insert 2 batteries taking care to ensure correct polarity.
  3.  Refit the cover and rotate the latch clockwise to close.
  4. The battery condition is indicated by a symbol in the top right of the display
  5. Full symbol (orange) = batteries at full capacity Empty symbol (red, flashing)= batteries at lowest Sustainable level

CONNECTING TRANSDUCER

  1.  Align the red dot on the transducer plug with the red dot on the base of the gauge.
  2.  Push the transducer into the gauge, ensuring that the connector is fully engaged.
  3. All single-element delay line transducers which can be connected directly to the base of a PTG gauge A see Section 16.1 Transducers’ on page en-28 are intelligent’ transducers.

The transducer frequency and diameter will be identified automatically by the gauge and the user will be prompted to select the type of delay line attached (if any). Details of the transducer connected can be viewed at any time via
Menu/About/Transducer Information.A transducer adaptor is available which enables other Elcometer’s non- intelligent, single element delay line transducers, and other manufacturers’ transducers, to be used with the Elcometer PTG product range – see Section 16.5 Transducer Adaptor’ on page en-31.

SELECTING YOUR LANGUAGE

  1. Press and hold the ON/OFF button until the Elcometer logo is displayed.
  2. Press Menu/Setup/Language and select your language using the Tsoftkeys. Follow the on-screen menus.
  3. To access the language menu when in a foreign language Switch the gauge OFF.
  4. Press and hold the left softkey and switch the gauge ON.
  5. Select your language using the T softkeys.

SCREEN SETTINGS
A number of screen settings can be defined by the user via Menu/Setup/Screen Settings including:

  • Screen Brightness; This can be set to ‘Manual or ‘Auto’ – the brightness is adjusted automatically using the gauge’s ambient light sensor.
  • Screen Timeout; The display will dim if inactive for more than 15 seconds and will go ‘black’ if inactive for the period defined.
  • Press any key or tap the gauge to awaken it. The gauge can also be set to switch off automatically after a user-defined period of inactivity via Menu/Setup/Gauge Auto Off. The default setting is 5 minutes

SETTING UP THE READING DISPLAY – PTG8

The color LCD display is split into two halves; Top Display and Bottom Display. The user can define what information is displayed in each half including; Readings, Selected Statistics, Run Chart, Bar Graph, Readings & Differential, and B-Scan.

To set up the display:

  1. Press Display/Setup Display/Top Display(or Bottom Display as required).
  2. Use the T softkeys to highlight the required option and press ‘Select’. If None is selected for one half and ‘Readings’, Run Chart’ or ‘B-Scan’ for the other half, the readings, run chart or B-Scan will fill the whole screen. If any other combination of options is selected; the data will be shown in the top or bottom display as specified.
    • None; No information is displayed.
    • Readings; The reading value is displayed.
    • Selected Statistics; Up to 8 statistical values can be displayed as defined by the user via Display/Statistics/Select
    • Statistics. Select from: Number of Readings, Mean, Lowest Reading, Highest Reading, Standard Deviation, Low Limit Value, Number
    • Below Low Limit, High Limit Value, Number Above High Limit, Range, Nominal Value.
  3. Run Chart; A-line trend graph of the last 20 measurements which is updated automatically after each reading.
  4. Bar Graph; An analog representation of the current measurement value together with the highest (Hi), lowest (Lo), and average (X) reading. The graph is updated automatically when each reading is taken.
  5. Readings & Differential”; The last reading is displayed together with the variation from the nominal value set via
  6. Menu/Limit Memories/Create Limit Memory/Set Nominal.
    • B-Scan; Provides a time-based, cross-sectional view of the material being tested. Readings are taken, saved readings, the highest (Hi), lowest (Lo), and average (X) reading together with upper and/ or lower limit values (if set and enabled) are Diana The material thickness is illustrated by grey and red shaded areas; red if readings are outside limits (if set and enabled). Readings that are saved into the gauge or batch memory are displayed as white or red vertical bars; red if readings are outside limits (if set and enabled).
  7. The B-Scan vertical scale can either be set to ‘Auto’ or the user can set the scale most appropriate for the thickness of the material under test. When the ‘Start Depth’ and ‘Max Depth’ are both set to ‘Auto’, the scaling is determined by the minimum and maximum readings are taken.
  8. To set the B-Scan resolution:  Press Display/Setup Display/B-Scan Scaling/B-Scan Start (or ‘B-Scan Depth’ as required).
  9.  Use the T softkeys to select Auto’ and press ‘Ok or alternatively, use the T softkeys to set the required value, press the softkey to move to the next digit, and press ‘Set’.
  10.  Repeat Step 2 for ‘B-Scan Depth’ (or ‘B-Scan Start’ as required). The default setting is B-Scan Start’ 0; B-Scan Depth’ = ‘Auto.

 SELECTING THE MEASUREMENT MODE

Three measurement modes are available for selection; ‘Interface Echo’, ‘Echo- Echo, and ‘Plastic Mode’. See Table 1: Measurement Modes for further information.

TABLE 15 :EASURE:ENT :ODES

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0nter8ace Echo

<0E>

|  | The total thickness 8rom the to4 o8 an7 coating through to the material densit7 -oundar7 <t74icall7 the -ack,wall> is measured. )uita-le 8or measurement o8 materials -etween .6mm and #.(mm <3.36*= to =>- thick.
Echo,Echo

|  | 0deal 8or measuring thin materials; the material thickness 8rom the to4 sur8ace o8 the material to the material densit7 -oundar7 <t74icall7 the -ack, wall> is measured. )uita-le 8or measurement o8 materials -etween 3. mm and 3. mm

<3.336= to 3.(=>- thick.

Plastic

Mode <P+5)>

| ,LAS| )4eci8icall7 used 8or measuring “er7 thin 4lastics

-etween 3. mm and mm <3.336= to 3. 1.=>- thick. 5 gra4hite dela7 line is reIuired when using this mode; see )ection 6.# MOela7 +inesN on 4age en,#1.

Note: The gauge should be re-calibrated when the measurement mode is changed – see Section 7 Calibrating your Gauge’ on page en-13. The calibration icon will flash intermittently to indicate that re-calibration is required.
To select the measurement mode, press Menu/Setup/Reading/Measurement Mode.

SELECTING THE MEASUREMENT UNITS
PTG gauges can display readings in mm or inches. To select the measurement units, press Menu/Setup/Units.

SELECTING THEMEASUREMENT RATE & RESOLUrION
Three user-selectable measurement repetition rates are available; 4, 8, and 16 Hz – the gauge will take 4, 8 or 16 readings per second depending on the rate selected. To select the reading rate, press Menu/Setup/Reading/Reading Rate.
When in ‘Scan Mode’ (PTG8 only) – see Section 9.3 Taking a Reading in Scan Mode’ on page en-20 – the reading rate is set at 16 Hz (16 readings per second). The gauges have a user-selectable reading resolution of 0.1mm (0.01″)- Low’, or 0.01mm (0.001″) – “High’, which gives more precise readings when measuring on thinner materials. To select the resolution, press Menu/Setup/Reading/Resolution and select ‘Low’ or ‘High’ as required.

SETTING LIMITS – PTG8
Limits are acceptable tolerance levels as defined by the user allowing the user to compare readings to pre-defined values. The PTG8 can store up to 40 pre-programmed limits. Limits can be created on the gauge or via PC using ElcoMaster”, and saved into the gauge memory for future selection. Using ElcoMaster”, saved limits can be transferred to other PTG8 gauges. Each Limit can consist of a nominal or target value (x:) required for ‘Readings & Differential – a low () and/ or high () limit value. Limits can either be created for individual readings or when a new batch is opened, see Sections 5.1 and 5.2. Different batches can have different limit values. When created, limits are stored in the gauge limit memory and are available for future selection, see Section Saved limits can be renamed and the values can be amended at any time, see Sections 5.4 and 5.5.

CREATING LIMITS FOR INDIVIDUAL READINGS
Press Menu/Limit Memories/Create Limit Memory/Set Upper Limit (or ‘Set Lower Limit’). Use the T softkeys to set the required value and press ‘Set’. If required, repeat Step 2 for ‘Set Lower Limit’ (or ‘Set Upper Limit’) and ‘Set Nominal”. When all values have been set, use the TV softkeys to highlight ‘Save Limit Memory n’ and press ‘Select’ to save. Limits are specific to the measurement mode in use when created.

CREATING LIMITS FOR A NEW BATCH
Press Batch/New Batch/Batch Limits/Create Limit Memory/ Set Upper Limit (or ‘Set Lower Limit’). Use the T softkeys to set the required value and press ‘Set. If required, repeat Step 2 for ‘Set Lower Limit’ (or ‘Set Upper Limit) and ‘Set Nominal’. When all values have been set, use the T softkeys to highlight ‘Save Limit Memoryn’ and press ‘Select’ to save. Limits are specific to the measurement mode in use when created. Batch limits can be viewed at any time via Batch/Review Batch/Batch Information.

SELECTING SAVED LIMITS
Press Menu/Limit Memories/Select Limit Memory or when in Batching, press Batch/New Batch/Batch Limits/Select Limit Memory.

  1.  Use the softkeys to highlight the limit memory required and press ‘Select’.
  2. Only the limits specific to the measurement mode in use are available for selection.
  3. Batch limits can be viewed at any time via Batch/Review Batch/Batch Information.
  4. When a limit memory is in use, is displayed to the right of the measurement screen, where n = the limit index number.

if a measurement is taken that falls outside set limits, the appropriate limit icon, the reading value and the reading differential (if enabled) turn red, the red LED flashes and the alarm beeps.

RENAMING LIMITS

  1. Press Menu/Limit Memories/Edit Limit Memory/Rename Limit Memory.
  2. Use the TV softkeys to highlight the limit memory to be renamed and press ‘Select’.
  3. Use the E} softkeys to rename the limit memory.
  4. Select ‘OK’ to save the changes or ‘Escape’ to exit and disregard any amendments made.

AMENDING LIMITS

  1. Press Menu/Limit Memories/Edit Limit Memory/Amend Limit Memory.
  2. Use the softkeys to highlight the limit memory to be amended and press ‘Select’.
  3. Use the T softkeys to highlight ‘Set Upper Limit’ (or ‘Set Lower Limit) and press ‘Select.
  4. Use the T softkeys to set the required value and press ‘Set’.
  5. If required, repeat Steps 3-4 for ‘Set Lower Limit’ (or ‘Set Upper Limit’) and ‘Set Nominal’.
  6. When all values have been amended as required, use the T softkeys to highlight ‘Save Limit Memory n’ and press ‘Select to save the changes.

CALIBRATION METHODS

In order for the gauge to make accurate measurements, it must be set to the correct sound velocity for the material being measured. Different types of materials have different sound velocities. For example, the velocity of sound through steel is 5920m/s (approximately 0.233in/us) and the velocity of sound through aluminum is 6350m/s (approximately 0.248in/us). Setting the calibration is crucial for the gauge to function correctly. The calibration procedure should be performed when the measurement mode, transducer, and/or material type is changed. A choice of calibration methods is available, see Table 2: Calibration Methods. To select the calibration method, press Menu/Calibration/Cal Method.

TABLE 25 CALIBRATION :ETHODS

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  Point|  | This is the sim4lest and most commonl7 used cali-ration 4rocedure. 5 reading is taken and adJusted on an uncoated sam4le 4iece o8 test material o8 a known thickness. !nce the thickness has -een entered and con8irmed; the deri”ed sound,”elocit7 is dis4la7ed.

Point|  | This method allows 8or greater accurac7 o”er small ranges.

2eadings are taken and adJusted on two uncoated sam4le 4ieces o8 test material; o8 two di88erent and known thicknesses. !nce the second thickness has -een entered and con8irmed; the deri”ed sound,”elocit7 is dis4la7ed.
Materialc|  | &ali-ration using the sound,”elocit7 o8 a material; selected 8rom a 4re,de8ined list o8 materials stored in the gauge.
Helocit7c|  | &ali-ration using the known sound,”elocit7 o8 the material under test.
:actor7 &ali-ration|  | &ali-ration using the de8ault 8actor7 cali-ration o8 the standard sound,”elocit7 8or steel; *1#3m@s

<a44ro%imatel7 3.#”in@Qs>.

 CALIBRATING YOUR GAUGE

USING 1 POINT CALIBRATION
This procedure requires an uncoated sample piece of the material being measured, the exact thickness of which is known (from having been measured by some other means) or a calibration standard see Section 16.3 Calibration Standards’ on page en-30.

  1.  Plug the transducer into the gauge ensuring that the connector is fully engaged.
  2. The wear face of the transducer should be clean and free of any debris.
  3. Press the On/Off button to switch the gauge on.
  4. Press Menu/Calibration/Cal Method and select 1 Point’.
  5. If 1 Point’ is already selected the calibration method currently selected is indicated by the icon to the right of the display simply press Menu/Calibration/Calibrate.
  6. When prompted, apply coupled to the uncoated sample or calibration standard.
  7. Press the transducer onto the uncoated sample or calibration standard, making sure it is flat against the surface.
  8. The display will show a thickness value that is constantly updating. The stability of the reading is indicated on the stability bar to the right of the display. A valid reading has a stability of 5 or more.
  9. Remove the transducer from the uncoated sample or calibration standard. The last reading is held on screen. If not representative, repeat Steps 4-5.
  10. Excessive use of the complaint can result in a distorted reading when the transducer is removed from the surface.
  11. Press ‘Adjust’ and using the T softkeys, adjust the reading to the known thickness value, followed by ‘Set’ to set the value.
  12. Pressing ‘Escape’ at any time will exit the calibration procedure without calibrating the gauge.
  13. The derived sound velocity will be displayed to the right of the display, below the calibration method icon.

Note: One-point calibration must be performed on material with the paint or coating removed. Failure to remove the paint or coating prior to calibration will result in inaccurate readings.

USING 2-POINT CALIBRATION
This procedure requires two uncoated sample pieces of different known thicknesses (from having been measured by some other means) of the material under test, which are representative of the range being measured, or two calibration standards – see Section 16.3 Calibration Standards’ on page en-30. Plug the transducer into the gauge ensuring that the connector is fully engaged. wear the face of the transducer should be clean and free of any debris.
Press the On/Off button to switch the gauge on. Press Menu/Calibration/Cal Method and select 2 Point’.If 2 Point’ is already selected – the calibration method currently selected is indicated by the icon to the right of the display – simply press Menu/Calibration/Calibrate.

  1. When prompted, apply coupled to the first uncoated sample or calibration standard.
  2. Press the transducer onto the uncoated sample or calibration standard, making sure it is flat against the surface.
  3. The display will show a thickness value that is constantly updating. The stability of the reading is indicated on the stability bar to the right of the display. A valid reading has a stability of 5 or more.
  4. Remove the transducer from the uncoated sample or calibration standard. The last reading is held on screen. If not representative, repeat Steps 4-5.
  5. Excessive use of compliance can result in a distorted reading when the transducer is removed from the surface.
  6. Press ‘Adjustť’ and using the softkeys, adjust the reading to the known thickness value, followed by ‘Set’ to set the value.
  7. Repeat Steps 4-7 using the second uncoated sample or calibration standard.
  8. Pressing ‘Escape’ at any time will exit the calibration procedure without calibrating the gauge.

Note: Two-point calibration must be performed on material with the paint or coating removed. Failure to remove the paint or coating prior to calibration will result in inaccurate readings.

USING MATERIAL CALIBRATION
The gauge is calibrated using the known sound velocity of material as selected by the user from a pre-defined list stored in the gauge. This calibration method is useful if uncoated sample test pieces of known thicknesses are not available.

  1. Press the On/Off button to switch the gauge on.
  2. Press Menu/Calibration/Cal Method and select “Material.
  3. If ‘Material’ is already selected – the calibration method currently selected is indicated by the icon to the right of the display – simply press Menu/Calibration/Calibrate.
  4. Use the softkeys to highlight the required material followed by ‘Select’.
  5. Pressing Escape’ at any time will exit the calibration procedure without calibrating the gauge.
  6. The sound velocity of the material selected will be displayed to the right of the display, below the calibration method icon.

USING VELOCITY CALIBRATION
To calibrate the gauge using this method, the user must know the sound velocity of the test material. This calibration method is useful if uncoated sample test pieces of known thicknesses are not available.

  1. Press the On/Off button to switch the gauge on.
  2. Press Menu/Calibration/Cal Method and select ‘Velocity.
  3. If ‘Velocity’ is already selected – the calibration method currently selected is indicated by the icon to the right of the display – simply press
  4. Menu/Calibration/Calibrate.
  5. Enter the known sound velocity using the T softkeys to select 0 to 9 and the softkey to move to the next digit, followed by ‘Set to use the value entered.
  6. Pressing ‘Escape’ at any time will exit the calibration procedure without calibrating the gauge.
  7. The sound velocity entered will be displayed to the right of the display, below the calibration method icon.

USING FACTORY CALIBRATION

  1. Press Menu/Calibration/Factory Calibration to restore the default factory calibration setting of the standard sound velocity for steel, 5920m/s (approximately 0.233in/us).

TEST CALIBRATION
This feature allows the user to test the calibration by taking a reading on an uncoated sample of material of known thickness, without the reading being saved.

Test Calibration

To test the calibration:

  1. Press Menu/Calibration/Test Calibration.
  2. Lift Transducer
  3. When prompted, apply coupled to the uncoated sample.
  4. Press the transducer onto the 9.99  3mm uncoated sample, making sure it is flat against the surface.
  5. The display will show a thickness value that is constantly updating. The stability of the reading is indicated on the stability bar to the right of the display. A valid reading has a stability of 5 or more.
  6. Remove the transducer from the uncoated sample. The last reading is held on screen. lf not representative, repeat Steps 2-3.
  7. Excessive use of the complaint can result in a distorted reading when the transducer is removed from the surface. Back Validate
  8. Press Validate’ to retain the existing calibration but refresh the associated time and date of calibration to the current time and date, ‘Cal’ to re-calibrate the gauge or ‘OK to exit the test calibration.

CALIBRATION CHECK
When enabled, this feature warns the user as readings are taken, of any which are outside the values at which the gauge was initially calibrated. When a reading is 10% or more below the lower calibration value or exceeds 10% above the higher calibration value, the alarm sounds, the red LED flashes and the calibration icon turns red.

To enable and disable calibration check:

  1. Press Menu/Calibration.
  2. Use the softkeys to highlight
  3. Calibration Check’ and press ‘Select.
  4. To disable, press ‘Select again to un-check the ‘Calibration Check’ radio button.

LOCKING THE CALIBRATION
Using the PIN Lock’ feature, the calibration settings can be locked, preventing the user from making any changes to the calibration without first disabling the PIN lock. Users can still test the calibration via Menu/Calibration/Test
Calibration when ‘PIN Lock’ is enabled, but are unable to validate or re- calibrate the gauge. For more information on ‘PIN Lock’, see Section 8 ‘PIN Lock’ on Dace en-18.

 CALIBRATION MEMORIES – PTG8

Up to three calibrations can be saved in the gauge memory. Once saved, the user can select the calibration memory without the need to re-calibrate the gauge. To save a calibration into memory: Press Menu/Calibration/Cal Memory n, where n 1, 2 or 3. Use the V softkeys to highlight Cal Method’ then press Select. 3 Use the softkeys to highlight the required calibration method and follow the on-screen instructions to calibrate the gauge. The calibration will be stored in the gauge memory as Cal Memory n, where n = 1, 2, or 3.To rename a calibration memory, press Menu/Calibration/Cal Memory n/Rename Cal Memory n. To view the calibration memory data, press Menu/Calibration/Cal Memory n/View Calibration Data.

PIN LOCK
The ‘PIN Lock’ feature prevents the user from accidentally adjusting the gauge settings.

To set a PIN code: Press Menu/Setup/PIN Lock. Set the four-digit PIN code using the Tsoftkeys to select 0 to 9 and the softkey to move to the next digit. Press Ok’ to set, ‘Escape’ to cancel or ‘Adjusť to amend the PIN code.When enabled, the following features are disabled and can not be adjusted:

  • Menu/Limit Memories/Create Limit Memory Menu/Setup/Reading/Measurement Mode
  • Menu/Limit Memories/Edit Limit Memory
  • Batch/New Batch/Batch Measurement Mode
  • Menu/Calibration/Calibrate
  • Menu/Calibration/Cal Method
  • Menu/Calibration/Cal Memory
  • Menu/Calibration/Factory Calibration
  • Menu/Reset
  • Batch/New Batch/Batch Calibration
  • Batch/New Batch/Batch Limits/Create Limit Memory
  • Batch/Edit Batch/Delete Batch
  • Batch/Deleted Reading

To unlock the PIN code:

  1. Press Menu/Setup/PIN Lock.
  2. Enter the four-digit PIN code using the softkeys to select 0 to 9 and the softkey to move to the next digit”.
  3. Press ‘Ok or ‘Escape’ to cancel
  4. Note: Should the user forget or lose the PIN code, it can be disabled via
  5. ElcoMaster. Using the USB cable supplied, simply connect the gauge to a PC with ElcoMaster version 2.0.50 or higher installed and select Edit Clear PIN.

TAKING A READING

BEFORE YOU START
Press the On/Off button to switch the gauge on. Connect the transducer to the gauge. All single element delay line transducers can be connected directly to the base of a PTG gauge see Section 16.1 Transducers’ on page en-28-
are ‘intelligent’ transducers and will be identified automatically by the gauge.

  1. If using other Elcometer ‘non-intelligent’ single element delay line transducers or other manufacturers’ transducers, a transducer adaptor is required-see Section 16.5 Transducer Adaptor on page en-31.
  2. Select the measurement mode see Section 4.6 on page en-8.
  3. If using Plastic Mode (PLAS), a graphite delay line must be fitted to the transducer as standard acrylic delay lines (supplied with each transducer) are not suitable. Graphite delay lines are available to purchase as optional accessories see Section 16.2 ‘Delay Lines’ on page en-29.
  4. Calibrate the gauge – see Section 7 on page en-13.
  5. Prepare the test surface – see Appendix 1 on pages en-34.

TAKING A READING IN STANDARD MODE

Apply a small amount of coupling to the test surface. Press the transducer into the couplaint, making sure it is flat against the surface.

  1. Moderate pressure on the top of the transducer using the thumb or index finger is sufficient; it is only necessary to keep the transducer stationary and seated flat against the surface of the material.
  2. The display will show a value that is constantly updating.
  3. The gauge will take 4, 8 or 16 readings per second as selected by the user via Menu/Setup/Reading/Reading Rate.
  4. The stability of the reading is indicated on the stability bar to the right of the display. A valid reading has a stability of 5 or more. If the stability indicator has fewer than 5 bars showing or the numbers on the display seem erratic, make sure there is an adequate film of complaint beneath the transducer, and that the transducer is seated flat against the material. If the condition persists, it may be necessary to select a different transducer (size or frequency) for the material being measured.
  5. PTG6 The last reading is held on screen when the transducer is removed from the surface.
  6. PTG8- Press ‘Save’ to store the current reading in the gauge or batch memory and remove the transducer from the surface.

TAKING A READING IN SCAN MODE PTG8
Scan mode allows measurements to be taken over a large surface by sliding the transducer across the area under test. The gauge takes readings at a rate of 16 Hz (16 readings per second) and at At the end of each scan, the average, lowest and highest readings are displayed and can be saved in the gauge or batch memory.

  1. Enable ‘Scan Mode’ via Menu/Setup/Reading/Scan Mode.
  2. Apply a small amount of coupling to the test surface.
  3. Press the transducer into the complaint, making sure it is flat against the surface.
  4. Moderate pressure on the top of the transducer using the thumb or index finger is sufficient; it is only necessary to keep the transducer stationary and seated flat against the surface of the material.
  5. Press ‘Start’ to begin the scan and slide the transducer over the test surface.
  6. The display will show a value that is constantly updating.
  7. The stability of the reading is indicated on the stability bar to the right of the display. A valid reading has a stability of 5 or more. If the stability indicator has fewer than 5 bars showing or the numbers on the display seem erratic, make sure there is an adequate film of complaint beneath the transducer, and that the transducer is seated flat against the material. If the condition persists, it may be necessary to select a different transducer (size or frequency) for the material being measured.
  8. Press ‘Stop’ to stop taking readings and complete the scan.
  9. If the scan is interrupted due to a lack of complaint beneath the transducer, for example, the scan is paused until a good signal is received or ‘Stop’ is pressed.
  10. The scanned lowest, average, and highest readings will be displayed on the screen. Press ‘Save’ to store the scanned readings into the gauge or batch memory. Press ‘Clear to disregard the last scan and start again.
  11. Remove the transducer from the surface.

BATCHING PTG8

The PTG8 can store 100,000 readings in up to 1,000 batches. The following batch functions are available:

  1. Batch/New Batch; Creates a new sequential or grid batch – see Section 10.1 ‘Creating a New Batch’.
  2. Batch/New Batch/Fixed Batch Size; Pre-define the number of readings that are stored in a batch. The gauge will notify the user when a batch is complete and ask if another batch is to be opened. These batches are then linked when transferred to
  3. ElcoMaster. This feature is only available in sequential batching- see Section 10.1 ‘Creating a New Batch’.
  4. Batch/Open Existing Batch; Open an existing batch.
  5. Batch/Review Batch; Review the readings, statistics, batch information, calibration information, limit information, and a graph of all readings – see Section 11 Reviewing Batch Data’ on page en-23.
  6. Batch/Copy Batch; Copy a batch including the batch header information, calibration, and limit information.
  7. Batch/Edit Batch/Rename Batch; Rename an existing batch.
  8. Batch/Edit Batch/Clear Batch; Clear all readings within a batch – but leave all batch header information.
  9. Batch/Edit Batch/Delete Batch; Delete a single batch or all batches entirely from the gauge.
  10. Batch/Deleted Reading/Delete Without Tag; Delete the last reading entirely.
  11. Batch/Deleted Reading/Delete With Tag; Delete the last reading but mark it as deleted in the batch memory.

CREATING A NEW BATCH
Users can create a sequential batch or a grid batch: Sequential batching; list-based storage of readings. Grid batching; readings are taken and stored in a grid/table format. The user defines the number of rows and columns and the direction in which readings are taken and stored.

To create a new sequential batch

  1. Press Batch/New Batch/Batch Type.
  2. Use the T softkeys to highlight ‘Sequential’ and press ‘Select.

To create a new grid batch:

  1. Press Batch/New Batch/Batch Type.
  2. Use the V softkeys to highlight ‘Grid’ and press ‘Select.
  3. Use the softkeys to highlight ‘Increment Direction’ and
  4. Press ‘Select to toggle between across columns (9) or down rows
  5. Use the V softkeys to highlight ‘Number Of Rows’, press ‘Select’ then use the T softkeys to enter the number of rows required and press OK.
  6. Use the softkeys to highlight ‘Number Of Columns’, press Select then use the T softkeys to enter the number of columns required and press ‘Ok.
  7. The maximum number of columns available is dependent on the number of rows selected and vice versa.

For example:

  • Number Of Rows =3,
  • Number Of Columns = 3.
  • Increment Direction = Across,
  • The first reading will be saved in cell A1, the
  • second A2, the third A3, the fourth B1, and so on.
  • Increment Direction = Down,
  • Number Of Rows = 3,
  • Number Of Columns
  • The first reading will be saved in cellA1, the second B1, the third C1, the fourth A2, and 3. So on.
  • The batch settings are saved in the batch header and can be viewed at any time via Batch/Review Batch/Batch Information.

The batch settings are saved in the batch header and can be viewed at any time via Batoch/Review  Batch/Batch Information. The grid/ table is a template of the measurement area and where each reading is to be taken. If for any reason a reading cannot be taken in a particular location, due to a steel girder for example, the ‘Obst’ softkey can be used. When the transducer is removed from the surface, the ‘Save’ softkey changes to ‘Obst. Pressing Obst’ records that reading could not be taken.

Note: The number of readings within the batch includes those recorded as ‘Obst’ however, Obst’ readings are not included in statistics calculations.

REVIEWING BATCH DATA – PTG8

BATCH STATISTICS (Batch/Review Batch/Statistics) Displays statistical information for the batch including:

  • Number of readings in the batch (n:)
  • The average reading for the batch (X:)
  • Lowest reading in the batch (Lo:)
  • Highest reading in the batch (Hi:)
  • Nominal value (x:)
  • Range (:); the difference between the highest and lowest reading in the batch
  • Standard Deviation (0:)
  • Low limit value () – if set – and the number of readings below the low limit (Tn)
  • High limit value (:) – if set – and the number of readings above the high limit

BATCH READINGS (Batch/Review Batch/Readings)
Displays the reading value together with the date and time stamp for each individual reading in the batch and the cell reference (A1, B3, etc) where the measurement was taken (for grid-type batches). Press the t softkeys to scroll
through the readings and to move to the next information screen. Readings outside any enabled limits for the batch are displayed in red with the appropriate limit icon to the left of the reading, (T) if the reading is below the low limit and () if above the high limit.

Press the T softkeys to scroll through the readings and > to move to the next information screen. Readings outside any enabled limits for the batch are displayed in red with the appropriate limit icon to the left of the reading, (T) if the reading is below the low limit and () if above the high limit.

BATCH GRAPH (Batch/Review Batch/Batch Graph)
Allows the users to view the readings within the batch as a column bar graph. Up to five horizontal axes as displayed representing different values/ statistics as follows: Highest reading in the batch° (Hi:) Lowest reading in the batch (Lo:) The average reading for the batch’ (X:) Low Limit (:); when set and enabled High Limit (2:; when set and enabled Back

If limits were not set and enabled, the readings are displayed as white vertical bars. If limits were set and enabled, readings are displayed as white bars if within set limits or red; if outside set limits. If there are more readings in the batch than can be displayed on a single screen, multiple readings will be combined into one bar. Should a single reading within the ‘combined bar’ be outside set limits, the whole bar will be red.

  • Pressing the ‘Zoom+ softkey, allows each individual reading to be displayed, thereby showing the individual readings outside the set limits.
  • When zoomed in, the graph will always display the first 25 readings. Pressing the E softkey will display the last 25 readings in the batch. Subsequent presses of the softkey will scroll backward, and pressing the >softkey will scroll forwards through the readings, 25 readings at a time.
  • Subsequent presses of the softkey will scroll backward, and pressing the softkey will scroll forwards through the readings, 25 readings at a time. Pressing the Zoom-‘ softkey returns to the original overview graph of all readings
    in the batch.

MENU STRUCTURE PTG8

DOWNLOADING DATA PTG8

USING ELCOMASTER”
Using ElcoMaster – supplied with each gauge and available as a free download at elcometer.com gauges can transmit readings to a PC for archiving and report generation. Data can be transferred via USB or Bluetooth. For more information on ElcoMaster visit www.elcometer.com

USING ELCOMASTER° MOBILE APPS
deal when out in the field or on-site, using the ElcoMaster” Android TM or iOS Mobile App users can:

  • Store live readings directly onto a mobile device and save them into batches together with GPS coordinates.
  • Add photographs of the test surface.
  • Map readings onto a map, photograph or diagram.
  • Inspection data can be transferred from mobile to PC for further analysis and reporting.
  • For more information on ElcoMaster” Mobile Apps visit www.elcometer.com

DOWNLOADING DATA PTG8 (continued)

Compatible with smartphones and tablets running Android 2.1 or above. To install, download via www.elcometer.com or using the Google Play Store app, and follow the on-screen instructions. Made for iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 6,

  • iPhone 5s, iPhone 5c, iPhone 5,
  • iPhone 4s, iPhone 4, iPad Air2,
  • iPad mini 3, iPad Air, iPad mini 2,
  • iPad (3rd and 4th generation),
  • iPad mini, iPad 2, and iPod touch (4th and 5th generation).
  • install, download via www.elcometer.com or the App Store, and follow the on-screen instructions.

UPGRADING YOUR GAUGE
Gauge firmware can be upgraded to the latest version by the user via ElcoMaster”, as it becomes available. ElcoMaster will inform the user of any updates when the gauge is connected to the PC with an internet connection.

SPARES & ACCESSORIES

TRANSDUCERS
The transducers listed are compatible with the PTG product range. They are microdot – the transducer cable is not permanently fixed to the transducer head and can be replaced – right angle, single element delay line, intelligent’ transducers. When connected, the transducer frequency and diameter will be identified automatically by the gauge and the user will be prompted to select the type of delay line attached (if any). Details of the transducar cannectad can ha viarad at anv tima via Menu/About/Tran The PTG range is supplied as a gauge only or complete with 15.0MHz, 1/4″ single element transducer (TXC15MOCM) with 9mm and 12mm acrylic delay lines. When choosing a transducer, the frequency, diameter and material under test should be considered.

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Other transducers are available which can be connected to PTG
gauges using a transducer adaptor see Section 16.5 Transducer
adaptor on page en-31. For a complete list of transducers, visit
elcometerndt.com

DELAY LINES
Each gauge is supplied complete with 9mm and 12mm acrylic delay lines suitable for measuring on steel, aluminum, and titanium. If measuring on thin plastics using Plastic Mode (PLAS), a graphite delay line must be used. These are available to purchase as optional accessories.

Description

  • Acrylic Delay Line; 1/4 Dia x 9mm
  • Acrylic Delay Line; 1/4 Dia x 12mm
  • Graphite Delay Line; 1/4 Dia x 3/8″
  • Sales Part Number T92016528 T92016529 T92023853-4

CALIBRATION STANDARDS

Available as a set or individually, allowing users to select the most appropriate thicknesses for their application, Elcometer calibration standards are manufactured from 4340 steel’ to a tolerance of t0.1% of the nominal thickness.
Calibration standard sets and individual standards are supplied complete with a calibration certificate.

INDIVIDUAL CALIBRATION STANDARDS

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T1#3&5+)TO,#| #| 3.38| T1#3&5+)TO, |  | 3.1
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| | 3.#3| T1#3&5+)TO,#3| #3| 3..1
T1#3&5+)TO, 3|  3| 3.’1| T1#3&5+)TO,#
| #*| 3.18

  • Calibration standards manufactured in other materials are available on request. Contact Elcometer for further information.
  • Imperial values for information purposes only. Calibration standards are manufactured and measured in millimetres

ULTRASONIC COUPLANT
For the gauge to work correctly, there must be no air gap between the transducer and the surface of the material being measured. This is achieved by using a complaint. A 120ml (4fl oz) bottle of the complaint is supplied as standard with each gauge, other sizes are available to purchase separately.A 120ml (4fl oz) bottle of coupling is supplied as standard with each gauge, other sizes are available to purchase separately.

Description

  • ultrasonic Couplant; 120ml (4fl oz)
  • Ultrasonic Couplant; 300ml (10fl oz)
  • Ultrasonic Couplant; 500ml (17fl oz)
  • Ultrasonic Couplant; 3.81 (1 US Gallon)
  • Sales Part Number
  • T92015701
  • T92024034-7
  • T92024034-8
  • T92024034-3

TRANSDUCER ADAPTOR
This adaptor allows single element, ‘non-intelligent’ transducers from Elcometer see Section 16.1 Transducers’ on page en-28 – and other manufacturers’ transducers with Lemon connectors, to be used with the PTG product range.
Simply plug the adaptor into the transducer connection point at the base of the gauge to connect any ‘non-intelligent, single-element transducer and follow the on-screen instructions.

WARRANTY STATEMENT

PTG gauges are supplied with a 12-month warranty against manufacturing defects, excluding contamination and wear. The warranty can be extended to two years within 60 days of purchase via www.elcometer.com. Transducers are supplied with a 90-day warranty.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

:)/e2 ,TG8 ,TG-

T$” ?ne && **R3n#e =**

| 0nter8ace Echo9                .6 , #.(3mm <3.36* , =>

Echo,Echo9                    3. , 3. mm <3.336 , 3.(=>

Plastic Mode9                  3. , .33mm <3.336 , 3. 1.=>

*!3 4*| Y R or 3.3 mm; whiche”er is the greater

<Y R or 3.33 =; whiche”er is the greater>

Re &)2%”)n| 3. mm <3.3 => or 3.3 mm <3.33 => switcha-le
:e3 &
!e(en% **
R3%e**| ( C? <( readings 4er second> 8 C? <8 readings 4er second>

6 C? < 6 readings 4er second>

*G3#e :e()!4**| None|  33;333 readings in u4 to

;333 -atches

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,)Be! *S1124| # % 55 -atteries
B3%%e!4 L”7e $*| 5lkaline9 544ro%imatel7  hours

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G3#e We”#$%| # 3g <..(o?> , including -atteries; without transducer
G3
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D”(en &”)n&|  ( % .’ % ‘.mm <.. % #.8. % .(6=> , without transducer
&an -e used in accordance with9 EN ( #.; EN *’ .

LEGAL NOTICES & REGULATORY INFORMATION

The Elcometer PTG6& PTG8 meet the Radio and Telecommunications Terminal Equipment Directive. The Elcometer PTG6 is Class B, Group 1 ISM equipment according to CISPR 11. Group 1 ISM product: A product in which there are intentionally generated and/or used conductively coupled radio-frequency energy which is necessary for the internal functioning of the equipment itself. Class B products are suitable for use in domestic establishments and in establishments directly connected to a low voltage power supply network that supplies buildings used for domestic purposes. The USB is for data transfer only and is not to be connected to the mains via a USB mains adapter.
The ACMA compliance mark can be accessed via: Menu/About/Legal/Regulatory This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Elcometer PTG8: The Giteki mark, its ordinance number, the FCC ID and Bluetooth SiG QDID can be accessed via: MenulAbout/Legal/Regulatory
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference ill not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to ty to correct the interference by one or more or the following measures:

  • Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
  • Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver
  • Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected
  • Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/ TV technician for help.
  • To satisfy FCC RF Exposure requirements for mobile and base station transmission devices, a separation distance of 20 cm or more should be maintained between the antenna of this device and persons during operation. To ensure compliance, operation at closer than this distance is not recommended. The antenna(s) used for this transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.
  • Modifications not expressly approved by Elcometer Limited could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment under FCC rules.
  • Elcometer PTG8: This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must
    accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device Under Industry Canada regulations, this radio transmitter may only operate using an antenna of a type and maximum (or lesser) gain approved for the transmitter by Industry Canada. To reduce potential radio interference to other users, the antenna type and its gain should be so chosen that the equivalent isotropically radiated power (e.i.r.p.) is not more than that necessary for successful communication.

20 APPENDIX 1: PREPARING THE TEST SURFACE

The shape and roughness of the test surface are of paramount importance when carrying out ultrasonic thickness testing. Rough, uneven surfaces may limit the penetration of ultrasound through the material and result in unstable, and therefore unreliable measurements. The surface being measured should be clean, and free of any small particles, rust or scale. The presence of such obstructions will gasoline avocado against  Often, a wire brush or scraper will be helpful in cleaning surfaces. In more extreme cases, a rotary sander or grinding wheels may be used, though care must be taken to prevent surface gouging, which will inhibit proper transducer coupling. Extremely rough surfaces, such as the pebble-like finish of some cast iron, will prove most difficult to measure. These kinds of surfaces act on the sound beam like frosted glass acts on light, the beam becomes diffused and scattered in all directions. In addition to posing obstacles to measurement, rough surfaces contribute to excessive wear of the transducer, particularly in situations where the transducer is ‘scrubbed’ along the suríace.

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