1. Introduction
The BENETECH GT235 is a portable, intelligent coating thickness gauge designed for quick and effective measurement of coating thickness. It can measure the thickness of non-magnetic coatings on magnetic metal substrates and non-metallic coatings on non-magnetic metal substrates. The device automatically identifies the type of metal substrate, simplifying the measurement process. It is widely used in various industries including automobile manufacturing, metal processing, chemical industry, and commodity inspection.
2. Safety Information
- Always handle the device with care to prevent damage.
- Do not expose the device to extreme temperatures, humidity, or corrosive environments.
- Keep the device away from strong magnetic fields, which may affect its accuracy.
- Ensure correct battery polarity when installing batteries. Remove batteries if the device will not be used for an extended period.
- Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the device, as this will void the warranty and may cause damage or injury.
- Use only the specified battery type (2 * 1.5V AAA).
3. Package Contents
Please check the package contents upon receipt to ensure all items are present:
- 1 x BENETECH GT235 Coating Thickness Gauge
- 1 x Lanyard
- 1 x Pouch
- 2 x Calibration Substrates (Magnetic and Non-magnetic)
- 5 x Calibration Coating Films
- 1 x English User Manual
4. Product Overview
The BENETECH GT235 features an ergonomic design with an LCD display and intuitive controls for easy operation.
- LCD Display: Shows measurement readings, unit, mode, and battery status.
- UNIT Button: Used to switch measurement units (μm, mil, mm) and navigate up in menus.
- MODE Button: Used to switch between measurement modes (SNG, CTN, DIF) and flip the screen display.
- CAL Button: Used for calibration functions and to activate the flashlight.
- Probe: The sensor used to contact the surface for thickness measurement.
- Battery Cover: Located on the back, provides access to the battery compartment.
- Lanyard Hole: For attaching the included lanyard for secure handling.
5. Setup
5.1 Battery Installation
- Locate the battery cover on the back of the device.
- Slide or lift the battery cover to open the compartment.
- Insert two (2) 1.5V AAA batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-) as indicated inside the compartment.
- Close the battery cover securely.
5.2 Initial Power On
Press and hold the power button (often integrated with the CAL button or a dedicated power button if present, otherwise, the device powers on automatically upon first use after battery installation or by pressing any button) to turn on the device. The LCD display will light up.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1 Power On/Off
- Power On: Press any button to turn on the device.
- Power Off: The device will automatically shut down after 1 minute of inactivity to conserve battery life.
6.2 Measurement Modes
The GT235 offers three measurement modes. Short press the MODE button to cycle through them:
- SNG (Single Measurement): Takes a single reading each time the probe is applied to the surface.
- CTN (Continuous Measurement): Continuously takes readings as the probe is moved across the surface.
- DIF (Differential Measurement): Measures the difference between a reference thickness and the current measurement.
6.3 Unit Switching
Short press the UNIT button to switch between the available measurement units:
- μm (micrometers): Metric unit.
- mm (millimeters): Metric unit.
6.4 Calibration Operation
Calibration is crucial for accurate measurements. The GT235 supports three types of calibration:
- Zero-point Calibration: Used to set the zero reference on an uncoated substrate.
- Offset Calibration: Adjusts the measurement for a known thickness.
- Basic Calibration: A comprehensive calibration using multiple known thickness films.
Refer to the detailed instructions in the included English manual for specific steps on performing each calibration type using the CAL button and calibration films/substrates.
6.5 Taking a Measurement
- Ensure the device is calibrated for the type of substrate you are measuring.
- Select the desired measurement unit (μm, mil, or mm) using the UNIT button.
- Select the desired measurement mode (SNG, CTN, or DIF) using the MODE button.
- Place the probe firmly and perpendicularly onto the coated surface.
- The measurement will be displayed on the LCD screen. For SNG mode, lift the probe and reapply for a new measurement. For CTN mode, slide the probe across the surface.
7. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Wipe the device with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents. Keep the probe clean and free of debris.
- Storage: Store the device in its pouch in a cool, dry place when not in use. Remove batteries if storing for extended periods to prevent leakage.
- Probe Care: The probe is a sensitive component. Avoid dropping the device or subjecting the probe to impact.
8. Troubleshooting
- Device does not power on: Check battery installation and ensure batteries are not depleted. Replace if necessary.
- Inaccurate readings: Perform a calibration (zero-point, offset, or basic) as described in the manual. Ensure the probe is clean and making proper contact with the surface. Verify the correct substrate type is being measured.
- Display is dim or flickering: Batteries may be low. Replace with fresh AAA batteries.
- Error message on display: Consult the full English manual for specific error code meanings and troubleshooting steps.
9. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Material | ABS |
| Measurement Units | μm, mil, mm |
| Measurement Range | 0~1800μm / 70.8mil / 1.8mm |
| Resolution | 0.1μm (<100μm), 1μm (≥100μm) / 0.1mil / 0.001mm |
| Measuring Error | ≤150μm, ±5μm; >150μm, ±(3%H+1μm) |
| Min. Diameter of Magnetic Substrate | 12mm |
| Min. Thickness of Magnetic Substrate | 0.5mm |
| Min. Curvature Radius of Convex Magnetic Substrate | 2mm |
| Min. Curvature Radius of Concave Magnetic Substrate | 11mm |
| Min. Diameter of Non-magnetic Substrate | 50mm |
| Min. Thickness of Non-magnetic Substrate | 0.5mm |
| Operating Environment | -20~40℃, 10~95%RH |
| Power Supply | 2 * 1.5V AAA battery (NOT included) |
| Item Size | 121.5 * 62 * 27mm / 4.78 * 2.44 * 1.06in |
| Item Weight | 176g / 6.21oz |
10. User Tips
No specific user tips were available from reviews or Q&A for this product at the time of manual creation. Always ensure proper calibration for the most accurate results.
11. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the contact details provided by your retailer or the official BENETECH website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.
