How is a "dry film test" typically expressed?

A "dry film test" is typically expressed in mils, which is a unit of measurement equivalent to one-thousandth of an inch. This measurement is crucial in paint technology as it quantifies the thickness of a paint film after it has dried. Proper film thickness is vital for ensuring that the paint provides adequate protection, adhesion, and appearance.

When conducting a dry film thickness test, a gauge or tool measures the distance between the substrate and the surface of the dried paint, helping to confirm if the application meets specified standards for that particular coating system. The use of mils allows for uniformity in measurement across different paint applications and industries, facilitating consistency and quality control in finishing processes.

In contrast, other measurements such as kilograms are not relevant to film thickness, a visual inspection report does not provide specific numerical thickness values, and percentage of coverage pertains to how much area a coating covers rather than its thickness.