Defelsko Positector rtr series User manual

Full Guide v. 1.2

Replica Tape Reader

Introduction ......................................................... 1

Quick Start .......................................................... 2

PosiTector Body .................................................. 3

Probes ................................................................. 4

Certification ......................................................... 5

Press-O- ilm Replica Tape ................................. 7

How to Measure .................................................. 8

Cleaning the Probe Opening (Anvils) ................. 12

Calibration & Verification of Accuracy ................. 13

Menu Operation .................................................. 14

Cal Settings Menu ............................................... 15

Zero ................................................................ 15

No Tape .......................................................... 15

Tape Grade .................................................... 15

Linearize ........................................................ 16

Setup Menu ......................................................... 17

Reset .............................................................. 17

Gage Info ....................................................... 18

Peak Density .................................................. 18

2D ................................................................... 19

3D ................................................................... 19

Sound ............................................................. 21

Units ............................................................... 21

Language ....................................................... 21

Table of Contents

Memory Management ......................................... 22

Standard Models ........................................... 22

Advanced Models .......................................... 23

Annotate ......................................................... 24

Display ........................................................... 25

Summaries ..................................................... 26

Screen Capture .............................................. 26

Save SD ....................................................... 27

Accessing Stored Measurement Data ................ 28

PosiSoft.net .................................................... 28

PosiSoft 4.0 Desktop Software ...................... 28

PosiTector App .............................................. 28

Connect Menu ..................................................... 29

Wi i......... ....................................................... 29

Access Point................................................... 29

USB.......... ...................................................... 31

USB Serial Streaming..................................... 31

Sync.net Now.................................................. 32

Bluetooth Smart................ ............................. 32

Bluetooth......................................................... 33

Updates .......................................................... 34

Technical Data .................................................... 36

Power Supply / Battery Indicator ........................ 36

Returning or Service ......................................... 37

Warranty .............................................................. 37

Introduction

The PosiTector Re lica Ta e Reader (RTR) is a hand-held

electronic instrument that measures burnished Testex Press-O-

ilmTM replica tape to produce peak-to-valley surface profile height

measurements. It consists of a PosiTector body (Standard or

Advanced) and probe (R R-H or R R-P)

PosiTector R R-P models also measure peak density (Pd).

Advanced R R-P models generate 2D/3D images and SD

Surface Data iles.

A surface cleaned by abrasive blast is best described using two

measured parameters: eak height and eak density.

Peak Height

H – the average of the maximum peak-to-valley distances

obtained by measuring the thickness of the replica tape

HL– a more accurate peak-to-valley height measurement adjusted

for tape non-linearity without the need to average 2 or more

replicas. This method has the additional benefit of being able to

extend the range of each grade of replica tape. See Linearize

pg. 16.

Peak Density (R R P only)

Pd – the number of peaks per square millimeter or square inch.

See Peak Density pg. 18.

Measurement RTR H RTR P

Peak Height H

Linearized Peak Height HL

Peak Density Pd

2D/3D images (pg. 19) Advanced only

Save SD surface data file

(pg. 20) Advanced only

Menu peration

Gage functions are menu controlled. To access the Menu,

power-up the Gage, then press the center navigation button.

Quick Start

The PosiTector RTR powers-up when the center navigation

button is pressed. To preserve battery life, the Gage powers

down after approximately 5 minutes of no activity. All settings are

retained.

To ensure best accuracy, the user will be prompted to zero

the probe every time the Gage is powered-up. It is therefore good

practice to clean the probe regularly with the included cleaning

card. Cleaning is best performed when the Gage is powered down.

NOTE:

With the Gage powered down...

1. Clean the probe with the included cleaning card. (pg. 12)

2. Power-up Gage by pressing the center navigation button.

3. Zero the probe. (pg. 15)

4. Verify Gage accuracy. (pg. 13)

5. Measure the burnished replica tape. (pg. 10)

Typical Display

Current

Measurement

Unit of Measurement

thou/mils

Battery Icon

2.1

Tape Grade

Linearize

Mode (pg. 16)

Button Functions- Normal peration

Scroll through

Trend Charts

(Advanced only)

Access the Menu

Pause / Resume

Restore brightness

after dimming

USB Port

Display

PosiTector body

probe connector

Wrist Strap

We recommend attaching and wearing the

supplied wrist strap.

Protective Lens Shield

The PosiTector display is covered with a thin plastic film for

protection against fingerprints and other marks during shipment.

This film, while usually removed before using the Gage, can be left

in place to protect against paint overspray or debris.

Replacements can be purchased.

connected probe type

is displayed during

power-up

PosiTector bodies accept all interchangeable probes including

surface profile (R R/SPG), coating thickness (6000/200),

environmental (DPM), Shore Hardness (SHD), soluble salt (SST),

and ultrasonic wall thickness (U G) probes.

Updates: Keep your PosiTector current with software updates

containing the latest features, functionality and probe compatibility

(see Updates pg. 34).

Power Source: 3 AAA alkaline, Lithium or optional Nickel-metal

hydride (NiMH) rechargeable batteries. or best battery indicator

results, ensure the appropriate Battery Type is selected in the

Setup > Battery Type menu (pg. 21).

The battery indicator displays a full bar with fresh alkaline

or fully charged batteries installed. As the batteries weaken, the

bar will be reduced. When the battery symbol is low

the Gage can still be used, but the batteries should be changed or

recharged at the earliest opportunity (pg. 36).

Additional PosiTector Probes:

The PosiTector body accepts a wide variety of probe types

including magnetic, eddy current and ultrasonic coating thickness,

surface profile, Shore hardness durometer, salt contamination and

ultrasonic wall thickness probes. See www.defelsko.com/probes

Probes

When powered-up, the PosiTector automatically

determines which probe is attached and does a

self-check.

To disconnect a probe from a body, slide the plastic

probe connector horizontally (in the direction of the

arrow) away from the body. Reverse these steps to

attach a new probe.

It is not necessary to power-down the gage when

interchanging probes.

NOTE:

Probe Connector

Button Operated

Spring Micrometer

applies constant

anvil pressure

Measurement

Opening (Anvils)

Camera

PosiTector RTR robe

(R R-P only)

(R R-P shown)

PosiTector bodies accept all PosiTector DPM, 6000, 200, SPG,

RTR, SST, SHD and UTG probes

A smart new way to measure!

-wirelessly connect R R-H probes to your smart device

-turn your cell phone or tablet into a virtual PosiTector gage

-includes free PosiTector app

Certification

PosiTector RTR probes include a Certificate of Calibration.

or organizations with re-certification requirements, instruments

may be returned at regular intervals for calibration.

De elsko recommends that customers establish calibration

intervals based upon their own experience and work environment.

Based on our product knowledge, data and customer feedback, a

one year calibration interval from either the date of calibration, date

of purchase, or date of receipt is a typical starting point.

PosiTector SmartLink Compatible (R R-H probes only)

R R-P probes are not compatible with PosiTector

SmartLink

NOTE:

Learn more at: www.defelsko.com/smartlink

Why is surface profle measurement important?

Steel surfaces are frequently cleaned by abrasive impact prior to

the application of protective coatings. The resultant surface profile

must be accurately assessed to ensure compliance with job or

contract specifications. In the protective coatings industry, replica

tape is widely used for quantifying surface profile.

Peak height and peak density are important factors in the

performance of applied protective coatings. Low values may

reduce coating bond strength (adhesion). High values may cause

peaks to receive insufficient coverage and possibly rust

prematurely and for the surface to be insufficiently wetted.

The figure below is a simplified example of why BOTH peak height

AND peak density are important to the understanding of coating

performance. The two surfaces have different geometries yet their

height measurements are the same. Peak density measurements

give a clearer picture of the surface available for bonding.

Both surfaces have the same measured peak-to-valley height. A

second important measurable parameter, peak density, helps

explain why coatings bond differently to each surface.

or these reasons, surface profile should be measured prior to

coating application to ensure that it meets contract specifications.

Press- -Film Replica Tape

Press-O- ilm provides a simple way to obtain an impression of a

surface for analysis. It consists of a layer of crushable plastic micro

foam affixed to a 50.8 µm (2 mil)

incompressible polyester film. When

compressed against a roughened surface, the

foam collapses and acquires an accurate

impression, or reverse replica, of the surface.

Placing the compressed tape (replica) into the PosiTector RTR

gives a measure of the average maximum peak-to-valley height of

the surface roughness profile. The Gage automatically subtracts

the thickness of the polyester substrate from all measurements.

Press-O- ilm is available in Coarse (C) and X-Coarse (XC)

grades to accommodate measurements in different profile ranges.

ptical Grade Press- -Film Replica Tape

or improved optical resolution and to reduce optical artifacts (see

below tape comparison), this special grade of replica tape is

available for use with the PosiTector RTR-P. It provides higher

quality SD surface data files than conventional Press-O- ilm

replica tape. It is available in both Coarse (C) and X-Coarse (XC).

How to Measure

Prepare the test surface

Burnish the replica tape (create a replica)

1. Prepare the test surface

2. Burnish the replica tape

3. Prepare the Gage

4. Measure

Locate a representative site for measurement.

Clean the surface to be tested. De elsko

recommends the use of the included putty to

remove dust, debris, or residual blast media from

the surface. irmly press the putty onto the surface

using your fingers, and remove.

Ensuring a clean surface is especially important when

using the PosiTector RTR-P to measure peak density (Pd) and

generate surface images.

NOTE:

Select the appropriate grade of replica tape based on the target

profile. See tape instructions for assistance.

Pull a single adhesive-backed replica tape free of its release

paper. A “bull’s eye” circle of paper should remain on the release

paper (it is not used for measurement).

Apply replica tape to blasted surface. Press the

adhesive-backed ends of the tape to hold it firmly in

place during the burnishing process.

irmly compress the foam using the rounded end of

the included stainless steel burnishing tool. Apply

sufficient pressure in a circular and x-y rubbing

motion to produce a replica with a uniform pebble

grain appearance. Excessively hard rubbing

should be avoided because the olyester film

could become distorted. It normally takes 30 to 60

seconds to fully compress all parts of the foam on most surfaces.

After burnishing is complete, remove the replica tape from the

surface.

Prepare the Gage

With the Gage powered-down, clean the measurement surfaces

using the included cleaning card. Swipe the card through the

opening a few times while firmly pressing both probe buttons to

remove dust particles and residual tape adhesive.

Power-up the Gage by pressing the center navigation button. An

image appears indicating that the probe requires zeroing.

Simultaneously press and hold both probe buttons firmly

until the Gage beeps and the arrows point outward. Do

not place anything in the measurement opening during

this procedure.

Measure the included check shim to verify accuracy (pg. 13).

Ensure the correct grade of replica tape, C or XC, is displayed in

the upper left corner of the display (pg. 7).

Cleaning the anvils (pg. 12) is especially important when

using the PosiTector RTR-P to measure peak density (Pd) and

generate surface images. If the cleaning card is damp, wait for the

anvils to dry before measuring.

NOTE:

Measure

Insert the burnished replica tape into the

measurement opening. Ensure the tape is

properly positioned so that the burnished region

is centered within the opening in the probe with

the adhesive (sticky) side down.

To position the tape, move the tape to the back of the probe and

align the two dots (printed on replica tape) with arrows on both

sides of the measurement opening.

During measurement, a constant anvil pressure is applied to the

replica tape regardless of how hard the two buttons are pressed.

The Gage automatically subtracts the 50.8 µm (2 mil) of

incompressible polyester film. No further adjustments are required.

If you are using older tape that does not have the printed dots,

simply align by centering the tape within the measurement

opening.

PosiTector RTR-H models

1. Ensure tape is properly positioned.

2. irmly press both probe buttons simultaneously and hold until

the Gage beeps and the surface profile height (HL) measurement

is displayed. The tape can now be safely removed.

PosiTector RTR-P models

It is im ortant to clean the anvils before each measurement when

obtaining peak density (Pd) and generating surface images.

1. Ensure tape is properly positioned.

Several images of the foam surface are

captured during each measurement.

Image blurring will occur if the tape is

touched or removed during this time.

Optical Grade Replica ape (pg. 7) provides higher quality

SD surface data files than conventional Press-O- ilm replica tape.

This special grade of tape recommended when taking

measurements which will be exported as SD images.

NOTE:

a) irmly press both probe buttons simultaneously and hold

until the Gage beeps and the arrows point outward.

b) Remove your fingers from the tape and release both probe

buttons (do not hold or remove tape from the gage).

c) Hold the gage steady while the probe measures the

compressed foam until the following graphic disappears.

3. The surface profile height (HL) measurement is immediately dis-

played. The tape can now be removed. An hour glass will dis-

play while peak density (Pd) and the associated 2D/3D images are

being generated.

The probe contains two measuring surfaces (anvils) that can

become contaminated with dust particles and residual tape

adhesive. It is therefore recommended to clean the probe regularly

with the included cleaning card. Cleaning is essential prior to

performing a probe zero (pg. 15) or a verification of accuracy

(pg. 13). It is best performed when the Gage is powered down.

With the Gage powered-down, swipe the card through the opening

a few times while firmly pressing both probe buttons.

The cleaning card can also be used to clean the surfaces of analog

spring micrometers. Replacement cards are available from your

dealer.

Cleaning the probe opening (anvils)

Before Cleaning After Cleaning

Cleaning the anvils is especially important when using the

PosiTector RTR-P to measure peak density (Pd) and generate

surface images.

NOTE:

Example of a 2D surface image taken with a PosiTector RTR-P

Advanced before and after cleaning the anvils with the cleaning

card.

Calibration

Gage calibration is typically performed by the manufacturer or

accredited lab. All probes include a Certificate of Calibration.

Calibration & Verification of Accuracy

Verification of Accuracy

Ensure that the probe has been cleaned with the included

cleaning card (pg. 12) and that the probe has been zeroed

(pg. 15).

Verify accuracy of the peak height measuring system

Place the Posi ector R R Check Shim into the probe opening.

The average of several measurements should be within the

combined tolerance of both the Gage and the shim. If not, the

Gage may need to be returned to your dealer for service.

The check shim is specifically intended for all PosiTector RTR

probes. The Gage is designed to measure burnished replica tape

within a limited measuring range and automatically subtracts

50.8 µm (2 mil) from height measurements to account for the

incompressible polyester film. Therefore plastic shims intended for

other instruments such as coating thickness gages will not be

measured properly.

Verify the peak density measuring system

(R R-P models only)

Place the Peak Density Check ape into the probe opening. The

peak density (Pd) result should be within tolerance specified on

the tape. Ignore the peak height (H) result.

If not, the Gage may need to be returned to your dealer for

service.

Menu peration

Gage functions are menu controlled. To access the Menu,

power-up the Gage, then press the center navigation button.

Below is a sample menu for a PosiTector RTR H Advanced

model:

Some buttons have a tick box to their

right to indicate current status. An empty

box indicates that feature is not active.

Current selection is displayed

with darkened background

Sync Now

USB Drive

Auto SYNC

Bluetooth

Wi i

Powder Probes

Updates

Exit

Press the (+) button to switch pages in a

multipage menu.

Press the (-) button to return to the previous

menu or page.

Select Exit to exit from any menu.

To navigate, use the Up and Down buttons to scroll vertically and to SELECT.

(Exit)

Down

Access the Menu

(Center/Select)

1515

Tape Grade

Cal Settings Menu

The probe should be zeroed regularly to ensure best accuracy.

While the user will be required to zero the probe every time the

Gage is powered-up. The Zero menu item allows the procedure to

be performed at more regular intervals. It is particularly useful

during long measurement sessions.

Clean the probe with the included cleaning card (pg. 12) before

performing a probe zero.

1. Select Zero from the Cal Settings menu

2. Simultaneously press and hold both probe buttons firmly until

the Gage beeps and the arrows point outward. Do not place

anything in the measurement opening during this procedure.

Zero

Selects a replica tape grade. Required when Linearize mode (HL)

is ON. C- Coarse XC - X-Coarse (default)

Simultaneously press and hold both probe buttons

firmly until the Gage beeps and displays “0”. This can be

performed from the main measurement screen without having to

access the menu.

Coarse Minus and X-Coarse Plus grades are not

supported in Linearize mode (pg. 16) since the only function of

these two grades is to improve upon the accuracy of C tape at its

low end and XC tape at its high end, something the PosiTector

RTR will automatically do when measuring HL. When Linearize

mode is O , the PosiTector RTR will measure all four grades of

replica tape just like a conventional spring micrometer.

NOTE:

SHORTCUT:

No Tape (R R-P only)

When selected the gage instructs the probe to take a picture and

store this image as a reference. This image is used with subsequent

measurements to compensate for irregularities in the optical path

within the probe. his operation is only required if the generated images

can not be cleaned up by cleaning the anvils with the cleaning card (pg. 12)

This is the default measurement mode. Linearize mode is ON

when this box is ticked and the "HL" appears on the display.

An undesirable characteristic of replica tape is that measurements

made with analog spring micrometers are most accurate near the

middle of each grade's range and least accurate at the outer ends

of each grade's range. That is why two other grades, Coarse

Minus and X-Coarse Plus, are used to check and, if necessary,

adjust measurements at the lower and upper ends of the primary

range of 20 - 115 µm (0.8 - 4.5 mils).

Inside the primary range, the upper end of Coarse grade’s range

and the lower end of X-Coarse grade’s range share a 38 - 64 μm

(1.5 - 2.5 mil) "overlap" region. Current Testex instructions

describe a relatively complicated and time consuming procedure

(the average of one reading using Coarse grade and one reading

using X-Coarse grade) that is used to knit the Coarse and

X-Coarse sub-ranges together to achieve reasonably accurate

readings over the primary range. This method is a compromise

between accuracy and ease of use.

When the Linearize box is NOT ticked, the PosiTector RTR

displays a height value of H comparable to the value an analog

spring micrometer would display after the 50.8 μm (2 mil) of

incompressible polyester substrate has been subtracted. In other

words, it is the average of the maximum peak-to-valley distances

obtained by measuring the thickness of the replica tape without

any correction.

When the Linearize box IS ticked, the PosiTector RTR displays

a more accurate peak-to-valley height measurement HLthat has

been adjusted for the non-linearity of replica tape. There is no

need to average 2 or more replicas from different grades of tape

AND there is no need to subtract the 50.8 μm (2 mil) of

incompressible polyester substrate. Ensure the proper tape

grade, C or XC, has been selected (pg. 7) and appears in the

upper left corner of the display.

Linearize

During measurement, if the linearized measurement falls outside

of the selected tape grade's range, the Gage will suggest a more

suitable tape grade to perform the measurement.

Reset

Reset (menu reset) restores factory settings and returns the Gage

to a known condition. The following occurs:

- All batches, stored measurements, images, SD surface data

files, batch names and screen captures are erased.

- Menu settings are returned to the following:

Date, Time and Wi i are not affected by either Reset.

Setup Menu

NOTE:

Memory = O

Statistics = O

Peak Density* = On

Memory Display = None

Bluetooth = O

WiFi = O

2D* = O

Tape Grade = XC

Linearize = ON

3D* = O

*Posi ector R R-P models only

Units = microns

Flip Display = Normal

Sound = ON

Language = English

Battery Type = Alkaline

Backlight = Normal

USB Drive = ON

Auto Sync = O

Perform a more thorough Hard Reset as follows:

1. Power down the Gage and wait 5 seconds.

2. Simultaneously press and hold the (+) and center buttons

until the Reset symbol appears.

This returns the Gage to a known, “out-of-the-box” condition and

performs the same function as a menu Reset with the addition of:

- All calibration adjustments and Cal Memory are cleared and

returned to the Gage’s factory calibration settings.

- Bluetooth Pairing info is cleared.

- Menu settings are returned to the following:

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DeFelsko PosiTector RTR Series User manual

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