Elcometer 311

* Why choose the Elcometer 311 ?

Quality.

When it comes to measuring paint on metal - we wrote the book. Elcometer paint thickness gauges can be found in the paint shops of every major automobile and paint manufacturer the world over. Since 1947, we have worked hand in hand with these manufacturers to set up and implement their Paint Quality Control procedures.

It is this unequalled knowledge and experience that inspired the development of the Elcometer 311.

Unlike other gauges on the market today, this gauge not only tells you where overspray and filler are located, but also tells you how much is present.

* How seriously was that quarter panel damaged ?

The digital display tells you.

* Has the vehicle been repainted ?

The digital display will tell you that as well.

* Specifications:

• Rugged, Reliable, and Accurate
• Easy to use, Factory Set and Ready to Read
• Even switches itself on and off as required!
• Range: 0-20 mils/thou (0-500 microns)
• Resolution: 0.5 mils/thou (10 microns)
• Works on Steel or Aluminum Panels

* Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Elcometer 311 work ?
The gauge takes a signal and sends it through the paint to the substrate below. The thickness of the paint is determined by measuring the time it takes the signal to travel to and from the substrate.

What is the "right" paint thickness for a vehicle ?
There is no "right" thickness. Because manufacturers constantly adjust their liquid and powder guns to compensate for changes in temperature, humidity, paint color, and vehicle type, paint thickness is always changing. Your Elcometer 311 is used to check the consistency of paint.

For example, when you measure a car and it reads between 3. 5 and 6.0 and then suddenly reads 12.0 you know that this area of the vehicle is a cause for concern. Whenever your gauge reads "- -" it means that the thickness is over 20 mils and could mean the presence of filler and a likely repair.

Why do some paint jobs "feather" or build from areas of low thickness to areas of higher thickness ?
Automobile companies tend to apply thin paint in areas with low chip potential and thicker paint in areas of high chip potential. The Elcometer 311 will allow you to note that the paint can be thicker on the leading edge of the hood, rocker panels, and the lower sections of doors while being thinner on the trailing edge of the hood, roof, trunk, or any other area with low chip potential.

Does my 311 work over aluminum and plastic ?
Yes, and No. The Elcometer 311 F version works only on steel panels. The Elcometer 311 FNF version works over both steel and aluminum panels. However, science has not yet come up with a reliable way to non-destructively measure paint thickness over plastic with accuracy.

What do F and NF stand for ?
F stands for ferrous metals (steel) and NF stands for non-ferrous metals (aluminum, copper, etc.). We use these terms in our models numbers so that the functionality of each instrument is easily apparent to the user.

* What advantages does the 311 Milgage have over other meters ?
The 311 Milgage offers more benefits than any other paint meter on the market. There are a slew of cheap Chinese gauges available now, and you get what you pay for. Below is a snapshot of some of the key points, which separate the 311 from the herd.

• 5-year manufacturer defect warranty. This is the most comprehensive and longest warranty offered by any company period.
• Lifetime guarantee on Calibration. You never have to pay for calibration of your 311 Milgage. Note - the 311 Milgage comes precalibrated, and test plates and shims are provided with your purchase so you can always verify your gauge is reading accurately.
• The 311 Milgage is the fastest automotive Mil thickness gauge available. This is a crucial benefit when buying cars at auction. When the cars are rushing through the lane, you don't have the time to wait for your readings. The 311 gives an instant reading, whereas every other gauge on the market is noticeably slower. Also, the 311 instantly switches between steel & aluminum panels, while indicating which surface you are on. It takes all the guesswork out of the equation, streamlining the buying process.
• The 311 Milgage is truly weather-proof. A custom fit water resistant cover comes with every purchase. The 311 Milgage is impervious to the most obstructive conditions; such as snow, rain, sleet, etc. These weather conditions can mask many surface indicators of paintwork and body filler on a car. You never have to worry with a 311 Milgage in hand.
• The quality and reliability of the 311 Milgage is legendary. The case is made from an industrial strength polymer, enabling it to withstand years of use where other gauges can fail. The Elcometer 311 probe is also made of the highest quality materials. This avoids the wear issues that other gauges have with their probes, consequently causing inaccuracy.
• Elcometer has an ISO-certified technician lab onsite. If the rare circumstance of an issue does arise, you will always have a direct point of contact. You can be assured Elcometer is #1 in customer satisfaction; we've been around for over 60 years. "Word of mouth" is our best advertising.

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