Faqs

Summary FAQ's

How do you operate the TQC PowderSave?

Turn both the base unit and probe on, press the probe button and hold it 18 mm (0.75”) from the part for 2 to 5 seconds. The predicted cured thickness result immediately appears on both the probe and base unit displays.

How does the TQC Powdersave work?

The probe uses ultrasound to non-destructively analyze applied powder in seconds. Information passes between the probe and the base unit via a fast Bluetooth wireless connection. Factory calibration in the base unit predicts the cured thickness.

Does the TQC Powdersave comply with any industry standards documents?

The PosiTector PC complies with ASTM D7378, “Standard Practice for Measurement of Thickness of Applied Coating Powders to Predict Cured Thickness”.

Is there a Certificate of Calibration?

No. Certificates of Calibration show traceability to a National Standard and no thickness standard exists at this time. The PosiTector PC Powder Checker is an in-process tool. To confirm final thickness meets specification, measure the cured coating with a PosiTector 6000 dry film thickness gage. A Certificate of Calibration is included with every PosiTector 6000.

Can I measure cured powder thickness with the TQC Powdersave post cure?

No. The TQC Powdersave only predicts cured thickness by measuring applied, uncured powder. Use the PosiTector 6000 to measure the post-cured powder coating thickness.

Why measure uncured powder?

Coatings must be applied within certain minimum and maximum dry film thickness specifications. But waiting to measure coating thickness after curing can result in product waste and production delays.

Accurate measurement at the time of application:

• Eliminates over usage

• Improves quality

• Controls set-up

• Reduces waste

• Saves money!

Is there only one model?

Yes. The TQC PowderSave measures from 20 to 110 microns (0.8 to 4.3 mils) and is suitable for a majority of powder applications.

What are the optional accessories?

The PosiTector PC has 2 available options.

• IR Printer receives data via wireless infrared
• Replacement probe screens (Qty 2) to protect the probe transducer

Are there simpler, cheaper ways to measure powder height?

Handy, inexpensive powder combs are available. However, the thickness of coating powders diminishes during the curing process. Measuring powder height in the pre-cured, pre-gelled state requires a correlation factor be calculated and applied to every measurement for every powder. Another disadvantage is that marks will be made in the powder, which are not always covered when the powder flows in the cure process

Does the TQC PowderChecker XP leave imprints or dimples in the powder?

The TQC PowderChecker XP makes contact-free measurements, and there are no cables to accidentally brush and disturb the powder.

While measuring, what’s the maximum distance between the wireless probe and the base unit?

The wireless probe has a range of 10m (30 ft.). The base unit can be attached to your belt, remain in the carry case, or be conveniently attached magnetically to a nearby steel structure.

What happens if the distance between the wireless probe and the base unit exceeds the 10 meter?

When the wireless probe and base unit are moved beyond radio range of each other their communication will temporarily cease. The probe will simply stop working. When brought back within radio range of the base unit, the operation will resume.

How do I know the base unit has received my readings?

The TQC PowderChecker XP will not operate unless the wireless probe and base unit are communicating with each other. Set-up is immediate and automatic. Both the probe and base unit display each measurement result. Both units beep and flash simultaneously and  will power-down automatically after a period of inactivity.

Can I connect other probes?

No. The base unit can only communicate with ONE specific probe using a permanent Bluetooth connection. If either the probe or the base unit should be repaired, both must be returned for service.

Can I pair the probe with another Bluetooth device?

No. The data transmitted between the probe and the base unit is secure . Neither the probe nor base unit can be paired with another Bluetooth device. The wireless probe only communicates with the base unit.

Can I download readings stored in memory from the gage to a PC using Bluetooth?

No. While the probe and base unit communicate via Bluetooth, readings stored in the base unit’s memory can be accessed using the USB cable (supplied).

What is USB Mass Storage?

USB Mass storage is an internal memory storage file system in the base unit that stores 1,000 readings in up to 100 batches. Stored readings are accessed using a common USB cable (similar to flash (thumb) drives, cameras or digital audio players). With your computer’s browser you can navigate through readings and reports. USB is supported by most personal computers.

What are the benefits of Mass Storage?

Biggest benefit of Mass storage is that no software have to be installed onto your computer. Modern operating systems can read directly from the TQC PowderChecker XP without installing device drivers. Connect the TQC PowderChecker XP to a USB port and have immediate access to your measurement data and charts. One-click printing of formatted reports, or cut-and-paste into your application.

Is it necessary to hold the probe steady during measurement?

No, on the contrary. The TQC PowderChecker XP performs best when there is slight movement. It was designed to measure moving parts on hooks.

When measuring, the result on the probe and base unit occasionally changes by several digits after I remove my finger from the probe. Is this correct?

Yes, this is normal operation. A queue of samples is still being processed after the button is released.

What types of batteries are used?

The wireless probe uses 3 “AA” alkaline batteries. The base unit uses 3 “AAA” alkaline batteries. With fresh alkaline batteries battery a full bar is displayed. The bar reduces as the batteries weaken. When the battery icon is low, the instrument can still be used, but the batteries should be changed at the earliest opportunity.