The Elcometer 3508 and 3560 4 Gap Film Applicators (part numbers K0003508M001, K0003560M201 and K0003560M202) are precision film applicators that produce four different film thicknesses from a single gauge. Testing the properties of paints, varnishes, cosmetics and glues depends on samples being consistent and reproducible; a hand-drawn film of uncertain thickness gives results that cannot be fairly compared, which is the problem these applicators address.

Each applicator is engineered from hardened stainless steel. To use one, rotate the applicator to the required thickness, fill the reservoir with the test coating and draw down a uniform stripe. The 3560/1 produces films of 30, 60, 90 and 120 microns at 60 mm wide, the 3560/2 produces 50, 100, 150 and 200 microns at 60 mm wide, and the 3508/1 produces 100, 150, 200 and 250 microns across two 50 mm stripes. The Elcometer 3508 is supplied with two reservoirs, which suits preparing samples for the Elcometer 1720 Abrasion and Washability Testers or comparing two coatings simultaneously.

The applicators can be used in accordance with ASTM D 823-E, the standard practice for producing films of uniform thickness for test purposes. They can be used by hand or with the Elcometer 4340 Automatic Film Applicator. An optional calibration certificate is available for each. Used in paint and coatings laboratories, quality control and product development, they are supplied by BAMR, South Africa's authorised Elcometer distributor.