Automatic Grind Gauge System

What Is Grind Gauge Measurement?

A grind gauge (fineness-of-grind gauge) is a standard testing instrument used to evaluate the size of particles and agglomerates contained in liquid materials such as inks, paints, and coating agents. A sample is drawn along the grooves on the gauge surface with a squeegee, and the degree of dispersion is read from the lines and dots formed by particles.

This test method, specified in JIS K 5600-2-5 and ISO 1524, is widely used across the paint and ink industries — from incoming raw material inspection to pre-shipment testing — and is essential for quality control of the dispersion process.

Automatic Squeegee Principle

The AGS-100 automates the squeegee operation, which is the primary source of variability in grind gauge measurement. By mechanically controlling the squeegee speed and contact pressure to constant levels, it eliminates inter-operator variability and delivers highly reproducible results.

In conventional grind gauge testing, subtle differences in squeegee speed and angle are known to affect measurement results. The AGS-100 mechanically fixes these conditions, enabling stable, repeatable measurements on the same sample.

Two Image Capture Modes

Mode 1: Immediate Post-Squeegee Image Capture

The gauge surface is photographed by a camera immediately after the squeegee passes. By capturing the surface before the liquid dries or changes, this mode records fine particle distribution patterns that are difficult to observe with conventional visual inspection. It is particularly effective for solvent-based inks and other fast-drying samples.

Mode 2: Post-Squeegee Completion Image Capture

In this mode, the entire gauge is scanned and imaged after the squeegee operation is complete. It provides an overview of particle distribution across the full gauge length, making it suitable for standard evaluation based on specification criteria. Captured images are saved in JPEG format and can be managed with timestamps.

Gauge Quality — Lapping Finish and Surface Precision

The accuracy of grind gauge measurements depends heavily on the groove machining precision of the gauge itself. Asahi Souken provides gauges finished with precision lapping in Japan.

• SK steel gauge — Made from tool steel suitable for standard applications. Offers excellent cost-performance and is widely used for general ink and paint particle size evaluation.
• SUS440 steel gauge — Made from corrosion-resistant stainless steel. Ideal for environments handling water-based inks or corrosive samples.

Inexpensive overseas-manufactured gauges may exhibit variability in groove edge precision and bottom surface smoothness. Domestically lapped gauges offer high groove uniformity, supporting the reliability of measurement values. Traceability is also supported, and calibration certificates can be issued.

Applicable Standards

Grind gauge measurement with the AGS-100 is compatible with testing under the following standards:

• JIS K 5600-2-5 — Testing method for paint fineness of grind
• ISO 1524 — Paints and varnishes — Determination of fineness of grind

The combination of automatic squeegee operation and image recording significantly improves the objectivity and reproducibility of standard testing compared to conventional visual/manual methods.

Key Features

• Automatic squeegee function (constant speed, constant pressure)
• Immediate post-squeegee image capture mode
• Post-squeegee completion image capture mode also available
• Compatible with various manufacturers' gauges via custom adapters
• Magnified display and judgment assist function
• Measurement results saved and managed as JPEG files
• SK steel and SUS440 steel gauges available
• Traceability support

Specifications