SDL Atlas K094 Digital Thickness Gauge for Textile and Carpet Testing
| Brand | SDL Atlas |
|---|---|
| Model | K094 |
| Measurement Range | 0–25 mm (resolution: 0.01 mm) |
| Foot Area | 412 mm² |
| Applied Load Range | 20–2000 g/cm² |
| Origin | Guangdong, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Direct Manufacturer |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Price Range | USD 14,000–42,000 |
Overview
The SDL Atlas K094 Digital Thickness Gauge is a precision-engineered instrument designed specifically for thickness measurement of compressible textile materials—particularly carpets, pile fabrics, nonwovens, and layered composites—under controlled, standardized loading conditions. It operates on the principle of mechanical displacement sensing via a calibrated linear encoder coupled with a pneumatically or manually actuated loading foot. Unlike general-purpose micrometers, the K094 applies a precisely regulated normal force across a defined contact area (412 mm²), replicating real-world compression behavior encountered during installation, wear, or regulatory evaluation. Its compliance with ISO 5084, ASTM D1777, and GB/T 3923.1 ensures traceable, repeatable results suitable for QC laboratories, R&D departments, and third-party testing facilities operating under GLP or ISO/IEC 17025 frameworks.
Key Features
- High-resolution digital display with 0.01 mm resolution and auto-zero function for rapid baseline calibration
- Adjustable, gravity-assisted or spring-loaded loading system delivering consistent forces from 20 to 2000 g/cm²—fully compliant with ISO-defined load classes for carpet thickness evaluation
- Fixed-diameter circular foot (412 mm² contact area, equivalent to ~22.8 mm diameter) engineered to minimize edge effects and ensure uniform pressure distribution
- Rugged anodized aluminum frame and stainless-steel measuring plunger for long-term dimensional stability and resistance to environmental drift
- Integrated height stop and sample positioning guide to standardize specimen placement and reduce operator-induced variability
- RS-232 serial interface for direct data export to LIMS or Excel-based reporting systems; optional USB-to-serial adapter available
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The K094 accommodates flat, flexible, and moderately resilient specimens up to 25 mm in uncompressed thickness—including cut-pile and loop-pile carpets, tufted rugs, needle-punched nonwovens, bonded felts, and laminated textile composites. Its design conforms to key international standards governing textile thickness measurement: ISO 5084 (determination of thickness of textile fabrics and products), ASTM D1777 (standard test method for thickness of textile materials), and Chinese national standard GB/T 3923.1 (tensile properties—part 1: determination of breaking force and elongation at break). All mechanical components are manufactured to ISO 2768-mK general tolerances, and the load application mechanism is verified annually per ISO 7500-1 Class 1 requirements for force-measuring instruments.
Software & Data Management
While the K094 operates as a standalone benchtop gauge, its RS-232 output supports seamless integration with laboratory data management workflows. When connected to a host PC running SDL Atlas’ optional Thickness Data Logger v2.1 (Windows-compatible), users can capture timestamped measurements, assign batch IDs, apply statistical filters (e.g., mean ± SD over n=5 readings), and generate PDF reports compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 Annex 11 requirements—including electronic signatures, audit trails, and user-access controls. Raw ASCII data streams include specimen ID, load setting, measured thickness, temperature (if external sensor is attached), and operator code—enabling full traceability in GMP-regulated environments.
Applications
- Quality control of residential and commercial carpet production—verifying conformity to contractual thickness specifications before shipment
- Comparative analysis of pile compression recovery after cyclic loading (e.g., ISO 2551–1 simulation)
- Validation of backing layer integrity in multi-layer carpet constructions
- Pre-screening of textile substrates prior to coating, lamination, or calendering processes
- Supporting sustainability claims by quantifying material density and volumetric efficiency in low-weight high-performance textiles
- Research into fiber architecture–thickness–performance correlations in smart textiles and acoustic insulation materials
FAQ
What standards does the K094 comply with for carpet thickness testing?
It meets ISO 5084, ASTM D1777, and GB/T 3923.1 for thickness determination of textile materials, including pile height assessment under standardized loads.
Can the K094 measure thickness of wet or coated fabrics?
Yes—provided the specimen remains dimensionally stable during the 30-second dwell time required for equilibrium reading; however, surface moisture must not interfere with foot contact or encoder operation.
Is calibration certification included with purchase?
Each unit ships with a factory calibration certificate traceable to NIM (National Institute of Metrology, China) and includes instructions for user-performed verification using certified gauge blocks.
How often should the load mechanism be recalibrated?
Annual verification against certified deadweight standards is recommended; SDL Atlas provides accredited recalibration services with turnaround within 5 business days.
Does the K094 support automated test sequences?
Not natively—but when paired with the optional Thickness Data Logger software and programmable stage controller, up to 99 preconfigured load-thickness protocols can be executed unattended.
