Proceq ZCC 2087 Series User manual

ZCC2087
Cross-Cut Tester
Instruction Manual

ZCC2087 - Manual
24. August 2021 © Copyright 2021, PROCEQ SA
Document Information
Document Revision: 2.0
Revision Date: -
Document State: Draft
Company: Proceq SA
Ringstrasse 2
CH-8603 Schwerzenbach
Switzerland
Classification: Manual
Revision History
Rev
Date
Author, Comments
2.9
Aug 18, 2021
PEGG
Initial document
merged from ZCC 2087 e v1.5
and Zprospekt_intro_crosscut_d_e
2.0
Apr 14, 2021
PEGG
Released Document

ZCC2087 - Manual
24. August 2021 © Copyright 2021, PROCEQ SA
Content
1Important Information ............................................................................................4
1.1 Exclusion of liability.................................................................................................. 4
1.2Damages during transport........................................................................................ 4
1.3 Shipment ................................................................................................................. 4
2Safety information ..................................................................................................1
2.1 Symbols used.......................................................................................................... 1
2.2 Safety notes and hints.............................................................................................. 1
3Product Description ...............................................................................................2
3.1 Versions .................................................................................................................. 2
3.2 Standard delivery..................................................................................................... 3
3.3 Accessories ............................................................................................................. 4
4Device overview......................................................................................................5
4.1 Flexible cutting head................................................................................................ 6
4.2 Multi-blade cutting tool ............................................................................................. 7
5Executing a cross-cut test .....................................................................................8
5.1 Measurement principle and procedure ..................................................................... 8
5.2 Choosing the cross-cutting pattern........................................................................... 8
5.2.1 Method A - X-cut...................................................................................................... 8
5.2.2 Method B - Lattice pattern........................................................................................ 8
5.3 Choice of the appropriate spacing of cuts................................................................. 9
5.3.1 Spacing according to DIN EN ISO2409.................................................................... 9
5.3.2 Spacing according to ASTM D3359.......................................................................... 9
6Handling of the ZCC2087 .....................................................................................10
6.1 Handling according to DIN EN ISO2409................................................................. 10
6.1.1 Removing loose particles ....................................................................................... 11
6.2 Handling according to ASTM D3359 ...................................................................... 11
7Evaluation –Cross-cut classification .................................................................13
8Maintenance and cleaning ...................................................................................15
8.1 Maintenance which can be carried out by the user ................................................. 15
8.2 Cleaning of the device............................................................................................ 15
9Technical Specification........................................................................................16

ZCC2087 - Manual
24. August 2021 © Copyright 2021, PROCEQ SA

ZCC2087 - Manual
24. August 2021 © Copyright 2021, PROCEQ SA
1 Important Information
1.1 Exclusion of liability
The content of this document is intellectual property of Proceq SA.
Illustrations, descriptions as well as the technical specifications conform to the instruction
manual on hand at the time of publishing or printing. However, Proceq SA is one of
continuous product development. All changes resulting from technical progress, modified
construction or similar are reserved without obligation for Zehntner to update.
Some of the images shown in this instruction manual may be of a pre-production model
and/or are computer generated. Therefore, the design / features of the delivered product
may differ in various aspects.
The instruction manual has been drafted with the utmost care. Nevertheless, errors cannot
be entirely excluded. The manufacturer will not be liable for errors in this instruction manual
or for damages resulting from any errors.
1.2 Damages during transport
On receipt of the goods, check for any visible damages on the packaging. If it is undamaged
you may sign the receipt of the goods. If you do suspect by visual inspection that damage
has occurred, make a note of the visible damage on the delivery receipt and request the
courier to countersign it. Moreover, the courier service must be held responsible for the
damage in writing.
If a hidden damage is discovered while unpacking, you have to inform and hold the courier
liable immediately in the following way: “When opening the parcel we had to notice that …
etc.“ This superficial checking of the goods has to be done within the time limit set by the
carrier, which is normally 7 days. However, the period could vary depending on the courier.
Hence, it is recommended to check the exact time limit when receiving the goods.
If there are any damages also inform your authorized dealer or Proceq SA immediately.
1.3 Shipment
Should the device be transported again, it must be packaged properly. Preferably use the
original packaging for later shipments. Additionally use filling material in the package to
protect the device from any shock during carriage.

ZCC2087 - Manual
24. August 2021 © Copyright 2021, PROCEQ SA
2 Safety information
2.1 Symbols used
This note comprises instructions needed to follow directions, specifications, proper
working procedure and to avoid data loss, damage or destruction of the instrument.
This note signifies a warning about dangers to life and limb if the apparatus is handled
improperly. Observe these notes and be particularly careful in these cases. Also inform
other users on all safety notes. Besides the notes in this instruction manual the
generally applicable safety instructions and regulations for prevention of accidents
must be observed.
2.2 Safety notes and hints
The ZCC 2087 is exclusively intended for the evaluation of adhesion of single- or multi-
coat systems. Any other use is considered as being not in accordance with the
intentions of the manufacturer and is conducted at the user's own risk. The
manufacturer is not liable for any resulting damages.
Unauthorized modifications and changes of the ZCC 2087 are not permitted.
Reproduction of the ZCC 2087 without permission is not allowed.
Proceq SA refuses all warranty and liability claims for damages caused by usage of
the ZCC 2087 in combination with non-original accessories, or accessories from 3rd
party suppliers.
All local safety regulations apply for the operation of the ZCC 2087.

ZCC2087 - Manual
24. August 2021 © Copyright 2021, PROCEQ SA
3 Product Description
The adhesion of a coating to a substrate is critical to both mechanical performance and
corrosion protection. In practice there are several test procedures for the determination of the
degree of adhesion.
The cross-cut test is a very rapid and simple method of the assessment for both single and
multi-coat systems.
The ZCC 2087 is an ergonomically designed cross-cut tester with a special flexible cutting
head with exchangeable cutting tool for evaluation of adhesion of single- or multi-coat
systems, which allows easy testing and reproducible results.
3.1 Versions
Version
Number of
blades
Spacing of blades
Standard
ZCC 2087.1
6
1 mm (0.04“)
DIN EN ISO 2409
ZCC 2087.15
11
1.5 mm (0.06“)
ZCC 2087.2
6
2 mm (0.08“)
DIN EN ISO 2409
ZCC 2087.3
6
3 mm (0.12“)
DIN EN ISO 2409
ZCC 2087.4
6
1 mm (0.04”), 2 mm (0.08”) and 3 mm
(0.12”), exchangeable
DIN EN ISO 2409
ZCC 2087.5
11
1 mm (0.04”)
ASTM D3359
ZCC 2087.6
6
2 mm (0.08”)
ASTM D3359

ZCC2087 - Manual
24. August 2021 © Copyright 2021, PROCEQ SA
3.2 Standard delivery
The following parts are included in the delivery:
Cross-cut tester with flexible cutting head (to guarantee
reproducible cross-cuts) and multiblade cutting tool according to
version (see technical specifications)
Allen key
Brush (for versions ZCC 2087.1 to ZCC 2087.4)
Roll of adhesive tape ACC753
(Length: 50 m, Width: 25 mm)
Magnifier
Certificate of manufacturer
Carrying case

ZCC2087 - Manual
24. August 2021 © Copyright 2021, PROCEQ SA
3.3 Accessories
Description
ACC183
Adhesive tape (1 roll with 65 m, width 25 mm)
ACC204
Adhesive tape (1 roll with 66 m, width 50 mm)
ACC064
ACC094
ACC095
Multi-blade cutting tool with 6 blades according to
DIN EN ISO 2409
spacing: 1 mm
spacing: 2 mm
spacing: 3 mm
ACC096
ACC098
Multi-blade cutting tool according to ASTM D3359
with 11 blades, spacing: 1 mm
with 6 blades, spacing: 2 mm
ACC166
Multi-blade cutting tool with 11 blades, spacing: 1.5 mm
Proceq SA refuses all warranty and liability claims for damages caused by usage of
the ZCC 2087 in combination with non-original accessories, or accessories from 3rd
party suppliers.

ZCC2087 - Manual
24. August 2021 © Copyright 2021, PROCEQ SA
4 Device overview
1. Flexible cutting head
2. Ergonomic handle
3. Multi-blade cutting tool
4. Fixing screw
(4)
(2)
(1)
(3)

ZCC2087 - Manual
24. August 2021 © Copyright 2021, PROCEQ SA
4.1 Flexible cutting head
The ZCC 2087 is equipped with a specially designed flexible cutting head which ensures
reproducible cross cuts. It avoids unbalanced pressure by the operator and provides a
uniform cutting depth over the complete width. Therefore it is also suitable for untrained
users.
Flexible cutting head ensures
reproducible cross-cuts.

ZCC2087 - Manual
24. August 2021 © Copyright 2021, PROCEQ SA
4.2 Multi-blade cutting tool
Our multi-blade cutting tools (3) are equipped with the amount of blades
required by the relevant standard. If one side is worn out, the multi-blade
cutting tool (3) can be rotated onto an unused side. We suggest to mark
the worn out side, e.g. with a water proof marker and with a black tip.
Loosen the fixing screw (4) with the Allen key.
Remove the fixing screw (4) and the multi-blade cutting tool (3).
Rotate the multi-blade cutting tool (3) to the next unused blade and re-insert it in this
position.
Insert the fixing screw (4) and push the multi-blade cutting tool (3) on the guiding pin.
Refasten the fixing screw (4) with the Allen key.
When all three sides of the blades are worn out, the reverse side of the blade can also be
used. Remove the multi-blade cutting tool turn and re-inserted it.
If all six blades are worn out, either a spare multi-blade cutting tool can be purchased at
Proceq or at an authorized Proceq agent.
Correct inserting of
the cutting tool

ZCC2087 - Manual
24. August 2021 © Copyright 2021, PROCEQ SA
5 Executing a cross-cut test
5.1 Measurement principle and procedure
There are various standards that describe the execution of a cross-cut test in order to
determine the adhesion of a coating.
In general a cross-cutting pattern is applied to the surface and visually evaluated.
To execute a cross-cut test the following procedure is followed:
1. Apply the cross-cutting pattern: Intersecting cuts (6 cuts with the appropriate spacing,
depending on the method and the film thickness) are performed. With Method A the
intersecting cuts are at an angle of 30° (X-cut) and with method B the intersecting cuts
are at an angle of 90° (lattice pattern).
2. In order to produce these cuts a dedicated cross-cut tester as the ZCC2087 can be used,
or alternatively a sharp blade with the appropriate cross-cut templet (ZCT2160). The
cross-cut tester is specifically designed to produce a reproducible pattern. Note: Always
pull the cross-cut tester.
3. Clean the cut pattern with a soft brush (included in the cross-cut tester).
4. Place an adhesive tape over the lattice parallel to one set of cuts. Ensure good contact
with the coating.
5. Evaluate the pattern according to the selected standard.
5.2 Choosing the cross-cutting pattern
There are two different methods of applying the cross-cut patterns. The pattern has to
chosen depending on the standards used and the thickness of the film.
5.2.1 Method A - X-cut
In Method A the intersecting cuts are at an angle of 30° (X-cut).
Method A is suitable for tests in accordance with
ASTM D3359
for film with thicknesses of >125µm
DIN EN ISO16276-2
for all films
5.2.2 Method B - Lattice pattern
In Method B the intersecting cuts are at an angle of 90° (lattice pattern).
Method B is suitable for tests in accordance with
ASTM D3359
for film with thicknesses of >125µm
DIN EN ISO16276-2
for film with thicknesses of 0µm - 250µm

ZCC2087 - Manual
24. August 2021 © Copyright 2021, PROCEQ SA
5.3 Choice of the appropriate spacing of cuts
The spacing of the cross-cutting pattern is dependent on the thickness of the film and the
selected standard (Method A - X-cut or Method B - Lattice).
Select the appropriate spacing of cuts:
5.3.1 Spacing according to DIN EN ISO2409
Film thickness
Substrate
Spacing of cuts
0μm - 60 μm
hard
1 mm
0μm - 60 μm
soft
2 mm
Above 60 μm to 120 μm
hard and soft
2 mm
Above 120 μm to 250 μm
hard and soft
3 mm
The cross-cut test is not suitable for substrates with a film thickness over 250 μm.
5.3.2 Spacing according to ASTM D3359
Film thickness
Spacing of cuts
0μm - 50 μm
0 mil –2 mil
1 mm
50 μm - 125 μm
2 mil –5 mil
2 mm
To test film thickness over 125 μm use test method A, as described in the standard.

ZCC2087 - Manual
24. August 2021 © Copyright 2021, PROCEQ SA
6 Handling of the ZCC2087
6.1 Handling according to DIN EN ISO2409
Hold the cross-cut tester only at the handle.
The flexible cutting head should always move freely.
Never use your other hand or finger of the leading hand to add additional pressure to the
cutting head during testing.
Always pull the cross-cut tester, never push it.
If the panel is made of wood or a similar material, apply the cuts with an angle of 45° to
the direction of the grain.
Procedure
Place the conditioned test panels on a rigid, flat surface to prevent any deformation of
the panel during the test.
Carry out the test at a temperature 23 ± 2 °C and relative humidity of 50 ± 5 %.
Hold the ZCC 2087 with the blade vertical to the test panel surface.
Make two successive cuts, the second cut crossing the original one at 90°, generating a
lattice pattern. All cuts shall penetrate the coating completely down to the substrate
surface. The indentation depth into the substrate should be as low as possible.
Remove any loose particles from the area of cutting. For suitable methods refer to
chapter 6.1.1.
Carefully examine the cross-cut area and compare it with the classification table in order
to determine the cross-cut value.
Test at least on three areas on the panel.
Issue a test report.
Cutting direction

ZCC2087 - Manual
24. August 2021 © Copyright 2021, PROCEQ SA
6.1.1 Removing loose particles
According to the informative Annex A of the DIN EN ISO 2409 the following three methods
are suitable for removing loose particles:
Brushing
Brush the panel lightly using a soft brush several times backwards and forwards along
the diagonals of the lattice pattern.
Adhesive tape
Remove two complete laps of tape and discard.
Remove an additional length at a steady (that is not jerked) rate and cut a piece of about
75 mm long. Place the center of the tape over the lattice in a direction parallel to one set
of cuts and smooth into place over the area of the lattice.
To ensure good contact with the coating, rub the tape firmly with a fingertip or the nail.
Remove the tape within 5 minutes after applying. Grasp the free end of the tape and pull
it off steadily in 0.5 s to 1.0 s at an angle which is as close as possible to 60°.
Since using an adhesive tape is no longer a normative reference, it is possible to use
any adhesive tape. However, we suggest to use a tape with an adhesive strength on
steel between 6N and 10 N. The adhesive strength of coatings can differ significantly
from the manufacturer's specifications on steel. Therefore it is important to always use
the same adhesive tape in order to get reproducible results.
Compressed air or Nitrogen
Remove all loose particles with compressed air or nitrogen.
6.2 Handling according to ASTM D3359
Hold the cross-cut tester only at the handle.
The flexible cutting head should always move freely.
Never use your other hand or finger of the leading hand to add additional pressure to the
cutting head during testing.
Always pull the cross-cut tester, never push it.

ZCC2087 - Manual
24. August 2021 © Copyright 2021, PROCEQ SA
Procedure
Place the test panel on a firm base.
Successively make two cuts about 20 mm (0.79 in.) long, the second cut crossing the
first one at 90°, generating a lattice pattern. Cut through the film to the substrate in one
steady motion using just sufficient pressure on the cutting tool to have the cutting edge
reach the substrate. (For coatings having a dry film thickness up to and including 50 μm
(2 mils) –eleven cuts, for coatings having a dry film thickness between 50 μm (2 mils)
and 125 μm (5 mils) –six cuts).
Brush the film lightly with a soft brush or tissue to remove any detached flakes or ribbons
of coatings.
Remove two complete laps of tape and discard.
Remove an additional length at a steady (that is not jerked) rate and cut a piece about
75 mm (2.95 in.) long.
Place the center of the tape over the grid and in the area of grid smooth into place by a
finger.
To ensure good contact with the film rub the tape firmly with the eraser on the end of a
pencil.
Within 90 ± 30 s of application, remove the tape by seizing the free end and rapidly (not
jerked) back upon itself at as close to an angle of 180° as possible.
Inspect the grid area for removal of coating using a magnifier and rate the adhesion in
accordance with the cross-cut scale.
Repeat the test in two other locations on each test panel.
Issue a test report.

ZCC2087 - Manual
24. August 2021 © Copyright 2021, PROCEQ SA
7 Evaluation –Cross-cut classification
When a cross-cut test is performed the results are visually evaluated after the cross-cut
pattern has been applied, cleaned and a tape has been attached and removed.
The evaluation criteria are depending on the test method (X-cut or lattice) and the standard
chosen:
Classification of the test results of
Method A (X-cut)
ASTM D3359
DIN EN ISO 16276-2
5A
No peeling or removal
0
No peeling or removal of coating
4A
Trace peeling or removal along incisions on
their intersections
1
Trace peeling or removal along cuts on their
intersections
3A
Jagged removal along incisions up to 1.6mm
(1/16") on either side
2
Jagged removal along cuts, extending up to
1.5mm (0.06") on either side
2A
Jagged removal along most of incisions up to
3.2mm (1/8") on either side
3
Jagged removal along most of the length of the
cuts up to 3mm (0.12") out on either side
1A
Removal from most of the area of the X under
the tape
4
Removal from most of the area of the X under the
tape
0A
Removal beyond the area of the X
5
removal of coating beyond the area o

ZCC2087 - Manual
24. August 2021 © Copyright 2021, PROCEQ SA
Method B (Lattice)
Cross-cut
DIN EN ISO 2409
ASTM D3359
0
The edges of the cuts are
completely smooth; none of the
squares of the lattice is detached.
5B
The edges of the cuts are
completely smooth, none of the
squares of the lattice is detached.
Percent area removed: 0 % - none
1
Detachment of small flakes of the
coating at the intersections of the
cuts.
A cross-cut area not greater than 5
% is affected.
4B
Small flakes of the coating are
detached at intersections, less than
5 % of the area is affected.
2
The coating has flaked along the
edges and/or at the intersections of
the cuts.
A cross-cut area greater than 5 %,
but not greater than 15 % is
affected.
3B
Small flakes of the coating are
detached along edges and at
intersections of cuts.
The area affected is 5 to 15 % of the
lattice.
3
The coating has flaked along the
edges of the cuts partly or wholly in
large ribbons, and/or it has flaked
partly or wholly on different parts of
the squares.
A cross-cut area greater than 15 %
but not greater than 35 % is
affected.
2B
The coating has flaked along the
edges and on parts of the squares.
The area affected is 15 to 35 % of
the lattice.
4
The coating has flaked along the
edges of the cuts in large ribbons
and/or some squares have
detached partly or wholly.
A cross-cut area greater than 65 %
is affected.
1B
The coating has flaked along the
edges of cuts in large ribbons and
whole squares have detached.
The area affected is 35 to 65 % of
the lattice.
5
Any degree of flaking that cannot
even be classified by classification
4.
0B
Flaking and detachment worse than
classification 1B.

ZCC2087 - Manual
24. August 2021 © Copyright 2021, PROCEQ SA
8 Maintenance and cleaning
8.1 Maintenance which can be carried out by the user
The user is only allowed to carry out the following maintenance and cleaning work:
Outer cleaning of the device as described below
All other maintenance and repair work shall only be carried out by Proceq SA or your
authorized Zehntner agent, otherwise all the guarantee and liability claims will be void.
8.2 Cleaning of the device
For cleaning of the aluminium housing use a proper, soft cloth. Only use soft cleaning
agents.
Do not use aggressive solvents or cleaning agents.
If the device has to be disinfected, do not use disinfectants that contain sodium
hydroxide.