Gloss Meter
How to Choose a Gloss Meter: 20°/60°/85°, Measuring Area and Use
A gloss meter measures surface gloss in GU (Gloss Units). It is commonly used for incoming inspection, process checks and batch quality control of coatings, plastics, baked finishes, inks and metals. Fulcrum Technology provides selection advice for 3nh gloss meters, comparing suitable models by measurement angle, sample area and how the instrument will be used.
For general coatings, begin with a 60° measurement: use 60° for readings from 10 to 70 GU, consider 20° above 70 GU, and consider 85° below 10 GU. If a customer specifies an angle or a material-testing standard, follow that requirement first.
How to choose 20°, 60° or 85°
60° | General gloss
Start with a 60° reading. For general coatings measuring 10–70 GU, use 60° for batch-to-batch gloss comparisons.
20° | High gloss
If the initial 60° reading is above 70 GU, consider 20° to better distinguish differences on high-gloss surfaces.
85° | Low gloss
If the initial 60° reading is below 10 GU, consider 85° to compare subtle differences on low-gloss or matte coatings.
Three angles | Different gloss ranges
For measurements across different gloss ranges, compare three-angle models such as the YG268, HG268 and NHG268, which measure at 20°/60°/85°.
These thresholds refer to the initial 60° reading. GU values measured at different angles must not be used interchangeably as the same acceptance criterion. See the guide to three-angle gloss meter applications.
Compare gloss meter series by application
YG Series | Routine gloss quality control
Suitable for incoming inspection and process checks. Compare single-angle, three-angle or small-aperture measurement by model. If you need computer software, records or reports, confirm support for the selected model.
HG Series | Measurement and data management
Compare models by interface, measurement modes, data logging and computer connectivity. The HG268 offers three-angle measurement; confirm the angles and functions of each model individually.
NHG Series | Touchscreen and measurement configurations
The NHG268 is a touchscreen, three-angle model. If you need 60° or small-aperture measurement, also compare the NHG60 and NHG60M based on sample area and operating needs.
YG60L Series | In-line non-contact measurement
For evaluating non-contact gloss monitoring on a production line. Before implementation, confirm measurement distance, sample flatness, line speed, installation space and data integration.
What about small areas, curved parts or textured surfaces?
For small spots, first compare small-aperture models and confirm that the measurement area fits entirely on the sample. Curved, textured or rough surfaces may affect measurement stability. Provide a sample photo and the usable measurement area so the positioning method and instrument suitability can be checked. For batch comparisons, keep the angle, location and orientation consistent.
What is the difference between gloss, color difference and haze?
A gloss meter measures surface gloss. For L*a*b*, ΔE and color differences, compare a colorimeter or a spectrophotometer. For transmission haze or transmittance measurements on transparent or translucent materials, compare haze meters and transmittance measurement instruments, and confirm the applicable test method.
When asking about a gloss meter, provide these four details
- Sample material, a surface photo and the usable measurement area.
- Current gloss reading and measurement angle, or the customer's specified test standard.
- How it will be used: spot checks on site, benchtop quality control or non-contact line monitoring.
- Whether you need batch records, computer software, reports or production-line data integration.
Fulcrum Technology provides local selection advice in Taiwan, demonstration arrangements, application discussions, after-sales technical support and repair assistance. Please confirm demo models, stock, lead time and service availability for the specific model and your requirements.
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