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The Gravel Resistant Impact Tester, often referred to as the Stone Chip Tester, is designed to evaluate the resistance of coatings and surface finishes when subjected to high-speed impacts from gravel or small stones. During testing, compressed air accelerates a controlled quantity of gravel toward a coated panel, reproducing conditions similar to road debris striking vehicle surfaces. This method provides manufacturers with reliable data on how coatings behave under harsh mechanical stress and helps them develop products with improved durability and long-term performance.

Product Applications

This instrument is widely used in industries where coated surfaces are frequently exposed to impact damage. In the automotive field, it is applied to body panels, bumpers, wheel arches, underbody components, and protective coatings applied to steel or plastic parts. It is also commonly used for commercial vehicles, railway equipment, construction machinery, outdoor structures, and aerospace components that require enhanced surface protection. Research laboratories and coating manufacturers rely on this tester to compare material performance and optimize coating formulations.

Applicable Standards

Depending on the configuration, the tester can be designed to meet major international standards related to stone impact resistance. Commonly referenced standards include ISO 20567-1 for the determination of stone chip resistance, SAE J400 for evaluating the chip resistance of surface coatings, ASTM D3170 for measuring the chipping resistance of coatings, and DIN 55996 for impact resistance testing. These standards ensure that the test results are recognized by automotive manufacturers and other industries worldwide.

Test Capabilities

The Gravel Resistant Impact Tester can evaluate several key performance indicators. It measures how well a coating resists stone impact and assesses the size and density of the resulting chips. It can also determine changes in surface appearance, coating adhesion after impact, and the level of deformation caused by gravel strike. Laboratories can use the results to compare different coating systems, including powder coatings, liquid coatings, and electrocoating layers. The instrument provides reliable data that supports material development, quality control, and performance certification.

Advantages

This tester provides a realistic simulation of stone impact and delivers results with high repeatability. It supports a wide range of substrates, including metal and plastic, making it suitable for various industries. Test data obtained from the instrument aligns with international standards, which helps manufacturers achieve compliance with customer and regulatory requirements. The controlled impact conditions allow laboratories to compare coating formulas objectively and make informed decisions during product development.

Disadvantages

Because the test involves high-speed gravel, it requires careful safety measures during operation. The chamber must be cleaned regularly, and the gravel needs to be replaced periodically to maintain consistent test conditions. Very thin or soft materials may deform excessively under impact and may not be suitable for this method. In addition, the test process can generate significant noise, so some environments may require noise-reducing measures.

Usage Notes

Before running a test, operators should always confirm that the air pressure setting is correct and that the chamber door is completely closed. Only the gravel specified by the relevant standard should be used, as differences in hardness or size may influence results. The chamber should be cleaned after each test cycle, and regular inspection of valves, seals, and the air system is important to maintain stable and safe operation. Proper protective equipment is recommended when handling gravel and test panels.

Professional Laboratory Instrument Supplier

We are a professional manufacturer of laboratory testing instruments and provide complete solutions for coating durability evaluation, material performance testing, and surface analysis. Whether you need a Gravel Resistant Impact Tester or a full range of laboratory equipment, we offer reliable, customizable, and standard-compliant solutions to support your research, quality control, and production needs.