The Trotec BB20 is a compact and versatile layer thickness measuring device designed for quick, precise, and non-destructive measurements of coating thicknesses on both ferromagnetic and non-ferromagnetic metal surfaces. It operates based on two principles: magnetic induction for coatings on ferromagnetic surfaces and the turbulent flow principle for coatings on non-ferromagnetic surfaces.
Function Description
The BB20 is primarily used for determining the thickness of coatings. It offers various operating modes and settings to adapt to different measurement scenarios and user preferences.
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Measuring Modes:
- Single Mode: After each measurement, an acoustic signal is emitted, and all measurements are automatically saved. This mode is suitable for individual, distinct measurements.
- Continuous Mode: In this mode, the sensor remains in contact with the surface between individual measurements. No acoustic signal is emitted, and all measurements are automatically saved. This is ideal for scanning larger areas or taking multiple readings in quick succession.
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Working Modes:
- DIRECT Mode: This mode is designed for quick and easy measurements. Measurements are temporarily cached during a series. However, these results are deleted when the device is switched off or changes to another working mode. The statistical analysis program can assess up to 80 measurements, and once the memory is full, the oldest measurements are overwritten.
- GROUP Mode: This mode allows for organizing measurements into four distinct groups. Each group can save up to 80 individual measurements and 5 statistical measurements. Calibration and limit values can be adjusted and saved independently for each group. When a group's memory is full, new measurements will not be saved, though measurements can still be carried out.
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Sensor Modes:
- AUTO: The device automatically selects the appropriate measuring mode (magnetic induction or turbulent flow) based on the surface material.
- Fe (Ferromagnetic): The sensor operates specifically according to the magnetic induction principle, suitable for magnetic surfaces.
- Not Fe (Non-Ferromagnetic): The sensor operates according to the turbulent flow principle, designed for non-magnetic metals.
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Units: Users can choose between metric units (µm and mm) and imperial units (mils) for display. The device automatically switches to mm if a measured value exceeds 850 µm.
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Statistical Measurements: The BB20 can calculate statistics based on up to 80 measurements in direct mode and save a total of 400 measured values in group mode. Statistical values include the number of measured values (NO.), average (AVG), standard deviation (Sdev.), maximum value (MAX), and minimum value (MIN). In direct mode, if memory is full, old measurements are replaced, and statistics are updated. In group mode, if memory is full, statistics are no longer updated, but measurements can still be performed.
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Calibration: The device supports various calibration methods to ensure accuracy:
- Zero-point calibration: Requires an uncoated sample identical in material, shape, and surface condition to the actual measuring object.
- One-point calibration: Suitable for high-precision measurements on thin coatings, requiring a calibration film, a coated, and an uncoated sample.
- Two-point calibration: Best for rough surfaces or high-precision measurements, using two films of different thicknesses (the thicker film should be approximately 1.5 times the thinner film).
- Calibration on radiated surfaces: Methods A, B, and C are provided to determine average coating thickness on surfaces that may yield higher-than-actual readings due to their nature.
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Reset Function: A full reset deletes all data stored in all memories, including calibration and limit values.
Usage Features
The BB20 is designed for user-friendly operation with a clear display and intuitive button controls.
- Display: The display shows the working mode, battery indication, PC access status, NFe/Fe display, unit, layer thickness, statistical data (AVG, MAX, MIN, SDEV), and the number of measured values.
- Menu Navigation: The main menu is accessed via the Red button. Users can navigate through menu items using the Up/Down buttons and confirm selections with the Red button. The Blue button allows returning to the previous menu item.
- Automatic Switch-off: The device automatically switches off after 3 minutes of inactivity to conserve battery life. This feature can be disabled via the Options menu.
- Background Illumination: The display's backlight can be controlled through the Options menu or directly during measurement using the Blue button.
- Limit Value Functions: Users can set upper and lower limit values. Any measured value falling outside these limits will be indicated on the display as "H" (above upper limit) or "L" (below lower limit).
- Data Deletion: Specific measured values can be deleted, including the last measured value (Current Data), all data in the current working mode (All Data), or all data within a group, including limit and calibration values (Group Data).
- PC Software: The device can connect to a PC via a USB cable. The accompanying software, "Coating Thickness Tester," allows users to call up, visualize (as charts or graphics), and save measured data (exportable as .csv or .txt files).
Maintenance Features
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and accuracy of the BB20.
- Battery Management: The device is powered by two 1.5 V AAA batteries. The display includes a battery indication, prompting users to change batteries when they are low or when the device can no longer be switched on. Instructions for inserting and replacing batteries are provided, emphasizing correct polarity.
- Cleaning: The device should be cleaned with a soft, damp, and lint-free cloth. It is crucial to prevent moisture from entering the housing. Abrasive cleaners, solvents, alcohol-based cleaning agents, or sprays should not be used; only clean water should moisten the cloth.
- Sensor Care: The measuring tip must be cleared of any contamination prior to each calibration to ensure accurate readings.
- Storage: When not in use, the device should be stored in its transport case in a dry, frost-free, and dust-protected environment, away from direct sunlight. Batteries should be removed from the device during long-term storage.
- Environmental Considerations: Users are advised to protect the device from permanent direct sunlight and avoid use in aggressive atmospheres or potentially explosive rooms. It's also important to allow the device to acclimatize when moving from cold to warm areas to prevent condensation from affecting measurements.
- Repair and Service: Users are explicitly warned not to open the device, modify it, or install unauthorized spare parts. For repairs or device testing, contact the manufacturer's customer service.
- Disposal: The device, batteries, and accumulators must be disposed of according to local and European regulations for waste electrical and electronic equipment and batteries, respectively, to prevent negative environmental and health impacts. Collection points and further return options are provided by the manufacturer.
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