A glossmeter is an instrument used to measure the specular reflection (gloss) of a surface. Gloss is determined by projecting a beam of light at a certain intensity and angle onto a surface and measuring the amount of reflected light at an equal but opposite angle. Common angles (called geometries) are 20°, 60° and 85°.

Measurements with different measuring geometries cannot be compared with each other or converted from one geometry to another. As a rule, the measurement geometry is specified by the applicable standard. If no explicit measurement geometry is prescribed, the following orientation aids can be applied. The automotive industry usually uses the 60° geometry. Due to the reflective properties of metals, it is recommended to first measure them under all measurement geometries in order to determine the most suitable geometry. However, as a general rule, 20° for high gloss, 60° for medium gloss and 85° for matt gloss. More detailed information can be found in our detailed information for gloss

If the surface to be measured is not flat, some points must be taken into account: Only measurements taken on surfaces of exactly the same shape can be compared. Therefore, a suitable holder for the specimen and measuring device should be provided to ensure that the same measuring position is always found on the test specimens.

The measurement results are not absolute gloss values and cannot be directly compared with measurements on flat surfaces of the same structure. Therefore, separate limit values must be defined for each measuring position on the component. It is also advisable to use a glossmeter with a small measuring and contact area, as this can be optimally positioned. The ZG 8000 is the best-selling glossmeter for measuring curved and difficult-to-reach surfaces.

We recommend sending measuring devices to us for maintenance and calibration at least every 24 months. However, if the measuring devices are used in harsh environmental conditions or dusty environments, any measuring device that achieves deviations from the working standard should also be sent to us for inspection and calibration ahead of time.

Please allow approximately one week for maintenance and calibration after receipt of the measuring device. Please do not hesitate to contact us directly.

Basically, you do not need an appointment for maintenance and calibration. The measuring device can be sent to our testing laboratory at any time and will be completed within one week. For additional repairs, longer running times may occur. However, we will inform you about this after the measuring device arrives.

If you already have an existing measuring device, we offer a trade-in bonus offer on new devices. You can find our current promotions here.