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Material and Coating Thickness Measurement for Underwater Inspection
The Elcometer UG20DL Underwater Thickness Gauge is a rugged ultrasonic instrument designed specifically for underwater material and coating thickness inspection. Waterproof to a maximum depth of 300 m (1,000 ft), it is particularly suited to offshore, marine, diving and submerged-structure inspection where measurements must be taken directly below the waterline.
The UG20DL can measure material thickness from access to only one side of a component and supports both dual-element and single-element ultrasonic transducers. Depending on the probe and measurement mode selected, it can measure uncoated material, determine substrate thickness through coatings, and record A-Scan waveforms for later analysis.
- 300 metre (1000 ft.) depth rating
- Single membrane & dual element probe transducers
- Automatic probe recognition & zero function
- Pulse-Echo, Pulse-Echo w/Coating, Echo-Echo and TCG (time corrected gain)
- Data Storage: Alphanumeric & Sequential w/ID
- Data output and storage: 5,000 readings and waveforms or A-Scans
- Data management software
Waterproof to 300 m / 1,000 ft
The high-strength sealed housing is rated for operation at depths of up to 300 metres (1,000 feet), equivalent to IP68. A magnetically coupled multifunction control allows the gauge to be operated while maintaining the integrity of the waterproof enclosure.
Underwater LEMO probe connections and purpose-designed underwater transducers make the UG20DL particularly useful for inspection of ships, offshore structures, submerged pipelines, tanks, marine infrastructure and other assets where dry access is difficult or impossible.
Measure Through Paint with ThruPaint™ Modes
The UG20DL provides several ultrasonic measurement modes for different inspection requirements. With a suitable transducer, Echo Echo and Triple-Echo ThruPaint™ modes can determine the thickness of the underlying material without including compatible surface coatings in the material thickness reading.
This can significantly reduce surface preparation during corrosion surveys because the coating does not necessarily have to be removed before the remaining wall thickness is measured.
Multiple Ultrasonic Measurement Modes
Pulse Echo (PE)
Pulse Echo measures from the front surface of the material to the first back-wall echo. It provides a broad measurement range and is suitable for conventional material thickness inspection.
Echo Echo ThruPaint™ (EE)
Echo Echo measures between successive back-wall echoes, allowing compatible coatings to be excluded from the material thickness measurement.
Pulse Echo Coating Thickness (PECT)
PECT allows the UG20DL to determine material and coating information using an appropriate dual-element transducer, making the instrument useful where both the protective coating and underlying structure are of interest.
Triple-Echo ThruPaint™
With a suitable single-element transducer, Triple-Echo measurement can determine substrate thickness through compatible coatings over a wider material thickness range.
Broad Measurement Range
| Measurement Mode | Measurement Range |
|---|---|
| Pulse Echo (PE) | 0.63 – 500 mm (0.025 – 19.999″) |
| Echo Echo (EE) | 2.54 – 102 mm (0.100 – 4.000″) |
| Pulse Echo Coating Thickness – Material | 0.63 – 500 mm (0.025 – 19.999″) |
| Pulse Echo Coating Thickness – Coating | Approximately 0.01 – 2.54 mm (0.001 – 0.100″) |
| Triple-Echo | 1.00 – 150 mm (0.040 – 6.000″) |
Accurate Ultrasonic Thickness Measurement
The UG20DL provides a measurement resolution of 0.01 mm (0.001″). Current Elcometer specifications state measurement accuracy of ±1% or ±0.1 mm, whichever is greater, subject to the material, transducer, calibration and inspection conditions.
The instrument also provides a velocity calibration range from 1,250 to 13,995 m/s, allowing it to be configured for a wide variety of materials.
Automatic Probe Recognition and Zeroing
Compatible dual-element transducers can be automatically identified by the UG20DL. Automatic probe zero and V-path correction help compensate for probe characteristics and simplify setup when changing transducers.
Single-element and manually selected probes can also be used, allowing inspectors to choose a transducer suited to the material, thickness range and surface geometry being inspected.
Built-In Material Calibration
The gauge includes eight pre-calibrated material velocities to simplify setup for commonly inspected materials:
- Aluminium
- Cast iron
- Iron
- PVC
- Polyurethane
- Polystyrene
- Stainless steel
- Steel
A user-programmable calibration setup is also available for materials requiring a different acoustic velocity.
A-Scan Waveform Recording
The UG20DL can save an A-Scan waveform together with each stored thickness reading and gauge setup. A-Scan information provides additional ultrasonic signal detail that can be reviewed after the underwater inspection.
This is particularly useful when measurements need to be documented, checked or analysed after the diver or inspector has returned to the surface.
Data Logging for Underwater Surveys
The gauge stores up to 5,000 thickness readings with associated A-Scan images and gauge settings. Data can be organised using sequential or grid logging and identified using alphanumeric batch information.
Stored readings can be transferred to a computer through the supplied interface cable for analysis and inspection reporting using compatible Elcometer NDT data-management software.
Gain Control for Challenging Materials
The UG20DL offers several gain-control options to help optimise the ultrasonic signal for different inspection conditions. These include Automatic Gain Control (AGC), Time Corrected Gain (TCG) and selectable manual gain levels.
This flexibility can be useful when inspecting corroded, attenuative or otherwise difficult materials where echo strength changes with thickness or surface condition.
Key Features
- Purpose-designed underwater ultrasonic thickness gauge
- Maximum operating depth of 300 m (1,000 ft)
- Waterproof construction equivalent to IP68
- Measures material and coating thickness
- Pulse Echo, Echo Echo, PECT and Triple-Echo measurement modes
- ThruPaint™ measurement capability with suitable transducers
- Dual-element and single-element transducer support
- Automatic recognition of compatible dual-element probes
- Automatic probe zero and V-path correction
- 1 – 10 MHz transducer frequency range
- Stores up to 5,000 readings with A-Scan waveforms and gauge settings
- Sequential and grid data logging
- Alphanumeric batch identification
- Eight preset material velocities plus one user-programmable setup
- Selectable millimetre or inch units
- Illuminated display for low-light underwater inspection
- Up to approximately 50 hours battery life with backlight off
- Powered by standard AA batteries
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Elcometer UG20DL |
|---|---|
| Model / Part Number | UG20DL |
| Maximum Depth | 300 m (1,000 ft) |
| Environmental Protection | Equivalent to IP68 |
| Measurement Rate | 4 readings per second |
| Measurement Resolution | 0.01 mm (0.001″) |
| Measurement Accuracy | ±1% or ±0.1 mm, whichever is greater |
| Velocity Calibration Range | 1,250 – 13,995 m/s |
| Transducer Types | Dual-element and single-element |
| Transducer Frequency Range | 1 – 10 MHz |
| Data Storage | Up to 5,000 readings with A-Scan images and gauge settings |
| Gain | TCG, AGC or selectable manual gain levels |
| Units | mm / inches |
| Backlight | On / Off / Auto |
| Battery Type | 3 × AA alkaline batteries |
| Approximate Battery Life | 50 hours; approximately 15 hours with backlight on |
| Operating Temperature | -30 to 60°C (-20 to 140°F) |
| Dimensions | 229 × 60.33 mm (9.0 × 2.4″) |
| Weight | 680 g (24 oz), including batteries |
| Transducer Connector | LEMO underwater connector |
| Computer Interface | Bi-directional RS232 |
Underwater Transducer Options
Elcometer offers dedicated underwater ultrasonic transducers for the UG20DL. Available probes include different frequencies and element configurations to suit specific materials and measurement requirements.
Examples include 2.25 MHz and 3.5 MHz underwater transducers with approximately 1.2 m (4 ft) cables. Probe selection should be based on the material, expected thickness, coating condition, surface geometry and required measurement mode.
The UG20DL gauge is supplied without a transducer unless otherwise specified, so the appropriate underwater probe should be selected separately for the intended application.
Typical Applications
- Offshore platforms and structures
- Ship hull inspection
- Submerged pipelines
- Marine structures
- Underwater storage tanks and vessels
- Bridge and harbour structures
- Corrosion and remaining-wall-thickness surveys
- Coated steel structures below the waterline
- Underwater maintenance inspections
- Diving and marine NDT operations
Standard Packing
- Elcometer NDT UG20DL underwater thickness gauge
- Ultrasonic couplant
- Carry case
- Operating instructions
- Test certificate
- 3 × AA batteries
- Data-management software
- Computer transfer cable
- Spare gaskets
- Lubrication set
Underwater transducers are ordered separately.
Test Standards
- ASTM E797
- EN 14127
- EN 15317
Q&A
Can the UG20DL actually be operated underwater?
Yes. Unlike conventional handheld ultrasonic gauges that are only splash-resistant, the UG20DL is specifically designed for underwater inspection and is rated for operation at depths of up to 300 m (1,000 ft).
Can it measure steel thickness without removing the paint?
Yes. With an appropriate transducer and ThruPaint™ measurement mode, the UG20DL can determine the underlying material thickness while excluding compatible coating thickness from the result.
Does it need access to both sides of the material?
No. Ultrasonic thickness measurement requires access to only one side of the component, making the UG20DL particularly useful for ship hulls, tanks, pipes and underwater structures where the opposite surface cannot be reached.
Does the UG20DL include an underwater transducer?
No. The standard gauge package does not include a transducer. Underwater transducers are selected separately according to the material, thickness range, surface geometry and measurement mode required.
What is the advantage of storing the A-Scan with each reading?
The A-Scan records the ultrasonic waveform associated with the thickness measurement. This allows the signal to be reviewed later on a computer, providing additional information when validating unusual readings or documenting an underwater inspection.
How many measurements can be stored?
The UG20DL can store up to 5,000 readings together with A-Scan waveforms and gauge settings. Measurements can be organised using sequential or grid logging and identified with alphanumeric batch information.
Can the UG20DL measure materials other than steel?
Yes. The gauge can be calibrated for different ultrasonic sound velocities and includes preset velocities for aluminium, cast iron, iron, PVC, polyurethane, polystyrene, stainless steel and steel. Other suitable materials can be measured using a user-defined velocity calibration.
What kind of batteries does it use?
The UG20DL uses three standard AA alkaline batteries. Approximate operating life is up to 50 hours with the backlight off or around 15 hours with the backlight continuously illuminated.
Material and Coating Thickness Measurement for Underwater Inspection
The Elcometer UG20DL Underwater Thickness Gauge is a rugged ultrasonic instrument designed specifically for underwater material and coating thickness inspection. Waterproof to a maximum depth of 300 m (1,000 ft), it is particularly suited to offshore, marine, diving and submerged-structure inspection where measurements must be taken directly below the waterline.
The UG20DL can measure material thickness from access to only one side of a component and supports both dual-element and single-element ultrasonic transducers. Depending on the probe and measurement mode selected, it can measure uncoated material, determine substrate thickness through coatings, and record A-Scan waveforms for later analysis.
- 300 metre (1000 ft.) depth rating
- Single membrane & dual element probe transducers
- Automatic probe recognition & zero function
- Pulse-Echo, Pulse-Echo w/Coating, Echo-Echo and TCG (time corrected gain)
- Data Storage: Alphanumeric & Sequential w/ID
- Data output and storage: 5,000 readings and waveforms or A-Scans
- Data management software
Waterproof to 300 m / 1,000 ft
The high-strength sealed housing is rated for operation at depths of up to 300 metres (1,000 feet), equivalent to IP68. A magnetically coupled multifunction control allows the gauge to be operated while maintaining the integrity of the waterproof enclosure.
Underwater LEMO probe connections and purpose-designed underwater transducers make the UG20DL particularly useful for inspection of ships, offshore structures, submerged pipelines, tanks, marine infrastructure and other assets where dry access is difficult or impossible.
Measure Through Paint with ThruPaint™ Modes
The UG20DL provides several ultrasonic measurement modes for different inspection requirements. With a suitable transducer, Echo Echo and Triple-Echo ThruPaint™ modes can determine the thickness of the underlying material without including compatible surface coatings in the material thickness reading.
This can significantly reduce surface preparation during corrosion surveys because the coating does not necessarily have to be removed before the remaining wall thickness is measured.
Multiple Ultrasonic Measurement Modes
Pulse Echo (PE)
Pulse Echo measures from the front surface of the material to the first back-wall echo. It provides a broad measurement range and is suitable for conventional material thickness inspection.
Echo Echo ThruPaint™ (EE)
Echo Echo measures between successive back-wall echoes, allowing compatible coatings to be excluded from the material thickness measurement.
Pulse Echo Coating Thickness (PECT)
PECT allows the UG20DL to determine material and coating information using an appropriate dual-element transducer, making the instrument useful where both the protective coating and underlying structure are of interest.
Triple-Echo ThruPaint™
With a suitable single-element transducer, Triple-Echo measurement can determine substrate thickness through compatible coatings over a wider material thickness range.
Broad Measurement Range
| Measurement Mode | Measurement Range |
|---|---|
| Pulse Echo (PE) | 0.63 – 500 mm (0.025 – 19.999″) |
| Echo Echo (EE) | 2.54 – 102 mm (0.100 – 4.000″) |
| Pulse Echo Coating Thickness – Material | 0.63 – 500 mm (0.025 – 19.999″) |
| Pulse Echo Coating Thickness – Coating | Approximately 0.01 – 2.54 mm (0.001 – 0.100″) |
| Triple-Echo | 1.00 – 150 mm (0.040 – 6.000″) |
Accurate Ultrasonic Thickness Measurement
The UG20DL provides a measurement resolution of 0.01 mm (0.001″). Current Elcometer specifications state measurement accuracy of ±1% or ±0.1 mm, whichever is greater, subject to the material, transducer, calibration and inspection conditions.
The instrument also provides a velocity calibration range from 1,250 to 13,995 m/s, allowing it to be configured for a wide variety of materials.
Automatic Probe Recognition and Zeroing
Compatible dual-element transducers can be automatically identified by the UG20DL. Automatic probe zero and V-path correction help compensate for probe characteristics and simplify setup when changing transducers.
Single-element and manually selected probes can also be used, allowing inspectors to choose a transducer suited to the material, thickness range and surface geometry being inspected.
Built-In Material Calibration
The gauge includes eight pre-calibrated material velocities to simplify setup for commonly inspected materials:
- Aluminium
- Cast iron
- Iron
- PVC
- Polyurethane
- Polystyrene
- Stainless steel
- Steel
A user-programmable calibration setup is also available for materials requiring a different acoustic velocity.
A-Scan Waveform Recording
The UG20DL can save an A-Scan waveform together with each stored thickness reading and gauge setup. A-Scan information provides additional ultrasonic signal detail that can be reviewed after the underwater inspection.
This is particularly useful when measurements need to be documented, checked or analysed after the diver or inspector has returned to the surface.
Data Logging for Underwater Surveys
The gauge stores up to 5,000 thickness readings with associated A-Scan images and gauge settings. Data can be organised using sequential or grid logging and identified using alphanumeric batch information.
Stored readings can be transferred to a computer through the supplied interface cable for analysis and inspection reporting using compatible Elcometer NDT data-management software.
Gain Control for Challenging Materials
The UG20DL offers several gain-control options to help optimise the ultrasonic signal for different inspection conditions. These include Automatic Gain Control (AGC), Time Corrected Gain (TCG) and selectable manual gain levels.
This flexibility can be useful when inspecting corroded, attenuative or otherwise difficult materials where echo strength changes with thickness or surface condition.
Key Features
- Purpose-designed underwater ultrasonic thickness gauge
- Maximum operating depth of 300 m (1,000 ft)
- Waterproof construction equivalent to IP68
- Measures material and coating thickness
- Pulse Echo, Echo Echo, PECT and Triple-Echo measurement modes
- ThruPaint™ measurement capability with suitable transducers
- Dual-element and single-element transducer support
- Automatic recognition of compatible dual-element probes
- Automatic probe zero and V-path correction
- 1 – 10 MHz transducer frequency range
- Stores up to 5,000 readings with A-Scan waveforms and gauge settings
- Sequential and grid data logging
- Alphanumeric batch identification
- Eight preset material velocities plus one user-programmable setup
- Selectable millimetre or inch units
- Illuminated display for low-light underwater inspection
- Up to approximately 50 hours battery life with backlight off
- Powered by standard AA batteries
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Elcometer UG20DL |
|---|---|
| Model / Part Number | UG20DL |
| Maximum Depth | 300 m (1,000 ft) |
| Environmental Protection | Equivalent to IP68 |
| Measurement Rate | 4 readings per second |
| Measurement Resolution | 0.01 mm (0.001″) |
| Measurement Accuracy | ±1% or ±0.1 mm, whichever is greater |
| Velocity Calibration Range | 1,250 – 13,995 m/s |
| Transducer Types | Dual-element and single-element |
| Transducer Frequency Range | 1 – 10 MHz |
| Data Storage | Up to 5,000 readings with A-Scan images and gauge settings |
| Gain | TCG, AGC or selectable manual gain levels |
| Units | mm / inches |
| Backlight | On / Off / Auto |
| Battery Type | 3 × AA alkaline batteries |
| Approximate Battery Life | 50 hours; approximately 15 hours with backlight on |
| Operating Temperature | -30 to 60°C (-20 to 140°F) |
| Dimensions | 229 × 60.33 mm (9.0 × 2.4″) |
| Weight | 680 g (24 oz), including batteries |
| Transducer Connector | LEMO underwater connector |
| Computer Interface | Bi-directional RS232 |
Underwater Transducer Options
Elcometer offers dedicated underwater ultrasonic transducers for the UG20DL. Available probes include different frequencies and element configurations to suit specific materials and measurement requirements.
Examples include 2.25 MHz and 3.5 MHz underwater transducers with approximately 1.2 m (4 ft) cables. Probe selection should be based on the material, expected thickness, coating condition, surface geometry and required measurement mode.
The UG20DL gauge is supplied without a transducer unless otherwise specified, so the appropriate underwater probe should be selected separately for the intended application.
Typical Applications
- Offshore platforms and structures
- Ship hull inspection
- Submerged pipelines
- Marine structures
- Underwater storage tanks and vessels
- Bridge and harbour structures
- Corrosion and remaining-wall-thickness surveys
- Coated steel structures below the waterline
- Underwater maintenance inspections
- Diving and marine NDT operations
Standard Packing
- Elcometer NDT UG20DL underwater thickness gauge
- Ultrasonic couplant
- Carry case
- Operating instructions
- Test certificate
- 3 × AA batteries
- Data-management software
- Computer transfer cable
- Spare gaskets
- Lubrication set
Underwater transducers are ordered separately.
Test Standards
- ASTM E797
- EN 14127
- EN 15317
Q&A
Can the UG20DL actually be operated underwater?
Yes. Unlike conventional handheld ultrasonic gauges that are only splash-resistant, the UG20DL is specifically designed for underwater inspection and is rated for operation at depths of up to 300 m (1,000 ft).
Can it measure steel thickness without removing the paint?
Yes. With an appropriate transducer and ThruPaint™ measurement mode, the UG20DL can determine the underlying material thickness while excluding compatible coating thickness from the result.
Does it need access to both sides of the material?
No. Ultrasonic thickness measurement requires access to only one side of the component, making the UG20DL particularly useful for ship hulls, tanks, pipes and underwater structures where the opposite surface cannot be reached.
Does the UG20DL include an underwater transducer?
No. The standard gauge package does not include a transducer. Underwater transducers are selected separately according to the material, thickness range, surface geometry and measurement mode required.
What is the advantage of storing the A-Scan with each reading?
The A-Scan records the ultrasonic waveform associated with the thickness measurement. This allows the signal to be reviewed later on a computer, providing additional information when validating unusual readings or documenting an underwater inspection.
How many measurements can be stored?
The UG20DL can store up to 5,000 readings together with A-Scan waveforms and gauge settings. Measurements can be organised using sequential or grid logging and identified with alphanumeric batch information.
Can the UG20DL measure materials other than steel?
Yes. The gauge can be calibrated for different ultrasonic sound velocities and includes preset velocities for aluminium, cast iron, iron, PVC, polyurethane, polystyrene, stainless steel and steel. Other suitable materials can be measured using a user-defined velocity calibration.
What kind of batteries does it use?
The UG20DL uses three standard AA alkaline batteries. Approximate operating life is up to 50 hours with the backlight off or around 15 hours with the backlight continuously illuminated.
