Producers, drilling contractors and rental companies periodically experience marginally acceptable hardbanding applications. But now there is a simple, but effective, new tool to ensure that their hardband applicators are properly applying hardbanding alloys, such as Duraband® NC or Tuffband® NC. The new Hardbanding Gauge & Rule, just introduced by Hardbanding Solutions, gives the user a quick "at a glance" check of the thickness of the applied hardband.
The new gauge is perfect for on-site inspections. By simply placing the ruler-like tool on top of the weld, the user can quickly check the height, width and profile of hardbands. Three different slots make measuring easy: 1/32in slot helps determine if re-application is necessary, 3/32in slot reveals the recommended minimum application thickness and 1/8in slot shows the recommended maximum application thickness.
The stainless-steel gauge, which is patent-pending, includes both metric and English measurements. It also features a series of "steps" that allow the applicator to easily set the torch to the proper height.
For more information on the Hardbanding Gauge & Rule, contact Postle Industries. The new tool is available for purchase on the company’s web site www.hardbandingsolutions.com for $18.