ISO 2178:2016 specifies a method for non-destructive measurements of the thickness of non-magnetizable coatings on magnetizable base metals.

The measurements are tactile and non-destructive on typical coatings. The probe or an instrument with integrated probe is placed directly on the coating to be measured. The coating thickness is displayed on the instrument.

In ISO 2178:2016 the term "coating" is used for material such as, for example, paints and varnishes, electroplated coatings, enamel coatings, plastic coatings, powder coatings, claddings.

NOTE This method can also be applied to the measurement of magnetizable coatings on non-magnetizable base metals or other materials (see ISO 2361).