TQC SHEEN Automatic Scratch Tester – SP0100

TQC SHEEN Automatic Scratch Tester

A reliable scratch tester for your coatings
Brought to you by TQC Sheen, our paint testing specialist brand, the TQC Sheen Automatic Scratch Tester is dedicated to coatings hardness evaluation based on the scratch resistance method. Quickly and easily measure how resistant your coating is to scratches or scuffing with our reliable scratch hardness tester, engineered for consistent, standards‑aligned operation and long‑term repeatability.

How our handy scratch tester works
A test panel is clamped down and slowly moved at 35 mm/s whilst a stylus with a tungsten carbide tip rubs and potentially scratches the coated surface. Depending on test procedures, specified loads can be applied to obtain different degrees of failure, from trace to destruction. A simple meter indicates the stylus contacting the metal sample substrate. To support repeatable and accurate testing, the instrument uses a rigid stylus arm with a counterweight, minimizing whip and ensuring stable, controlled contact across the sample surface.

Weight options for our scratch tester
The scratch tester comes with the weight set required by the current ISO 1518‑1. The weight set specified by the preceding standard is optionally available for those who’d like to carry out scratch testing according to those standards. This system is fully ISO 1518‑1 compliant, including the complete 20 N weight set required by the standard.

Automatic Scratch Test Scope of Supply:

• Automatic Scratch Tester
• ISO1518-1 20 N set of weights: 2 x 0,5 N, 1 x 1,0 N, 2 x 2 N, 1 x 4 N and 1 x 10 N and one weight holder pin
• 1 mm Stylus with Hemispherical 0.5 mm radius (tungsten carbide for excellent durability and precision)
• Power cord
• Scratch and scuff testing explained

The scratch test is a method used to assess the hardness resistance of a material. It involves scratching the surface of the material with a standardized tool, such as a Tungsten-tipped stylus, and measuring the resulting damage or deformation. After the scratching process is complete, resulting scratch is examined visually or using specialized equipment, such as a microscope or profilometer. Our TQC Sheen Automatic Scratch Tester is designed to measure the scratch resistance of coatings on metal panels, making it ideal for a wide range of industries – from automotive to beverage or other metal packaging.

The tester is built with sample compatibility, specifically optimized for coated metal panels, ensuring reliable results across these high‑value sectors.

About our Automatic Scratch Tester
The TQC Sheen Automatic Scratch Tester is a robust machine with all the moving parts well encased, ensuring it’s a great addition to any set up. It uses an engine for operating the moving slide and holds the sample at a constant speed of 35 mm/ s. The rigid stylus arm with counterweight prevents whip or chatter at the stylus ball-point.

A 1 mm tungsten carbide ball‑ended stylus is held in a chuck at exactly 90° to the test panel. It can be easily removed for inspection and replacement. The tungsten carbide tip provides a long‑lasting tool that won’t need frequent replacement.

The instrument features a robust, enclosed mechanical structure to protect moving parts and ensure reliable daily operation in busy lab environments. Audible and on‑screen failure indication, along with an optional auto‑return function to the first point of coating failure, streamlines evaluation, documentation, and repeat testing workflows.
These improvements support enhanced lab efficiency and greater long‑term reliability.

More than scratch resistance testing
You’ll find a huge range of coasting testers across the Industrial Physics portfolio, from scratch resistance testing to bend testing and adhesion testing. Browse our wide range of paint testing devices and accessories and do get in touch with our experts if you have any questions.

The Automatic Scratch Tester forms part of our broader portfolio of solutions suitable for automotive, beverage, and metal packaging sectors — wherever coated metal test panels are used.

Datasheet

ProductSheet-TQCSheen-AutoScratchTester-EN-200326