PosiTest AT-A
Automatic Adhesion Tester

The Positest AT-A Automatic Adhesion Tester measures the force required to pull a specified test area of coating away from a substrate using hydraulic pressure. An electronically controlled hydraulic pump automatically applies smooth and continuous pull-off pressure. The pump greatly reduces user effort and the risk of influencing the pulling process.

The Positest AT-A Automatic Adhesion Tester measures the force required to pull a specified test area of coating away from a substrate using hydraulic pressure. An electronically controlled hydraulic pump automatically applies smooth and continuous pull-off pressure. The pump greatly reduces user effort and the risk of influencing the pulling process.
The AT-A’s built-in rechargeable battery performs over 200 tests per charge. The supplied AC adapter / charger allows you to continue testing with AC power while the battery recharges.

The AT-A is features an environmentally sealed enclosure. It is weatherproof, dustproof and shockproof. Meeting or exceeding IP65 rating.

Model Comparison

Order Code ATA20 ATA50 ATA50T ATA50C
Dolly size and stand-off* 20 mm 50 mm 50 mm² 50 mm
Typical Applications Higher bond strength coating on metal Lower bond strength coatings on wood, concrete and plastic BS EN 12004-2
Cementitious adhesives for tiles		 ASTM C1583
Concrete surfaces and overlays
Range 0.7 – 24 MPa
100 – 3500 psi
100 – 7550 N		 0.4 – 3.8 MPa
50 – 560 psi
100 – 7550 N		 0.4 – 3.033 MPa
50 – 440 psi
100 – 7550 N		 0.4 – 3.8 MPa
50 – 560 psi
100 – 7550 N
Resolution 0.01 MPa (1 psi)
Accuracy ± 1% Full Scale
Included Dollies ⌀20 mm (qty 20) Aluminum ⌀50 mm (qty 8) Aluminum 50 mm² Plate (qty 4) with threaded post Steel ⌀50 mm (qty 4) with ≥ 25 mm thickness Steel
Cutting Tool 20 mm hole saw 50 mm hole saw – 50 mm diamond grit hole saw with arbor

* Optional 20mm/50mm/50 mm C1583/50 mm Tile Conversion Kits allow each model to be used with alternative dolly sizes. Custom 10 and 14 mm dollies are available for special applications (compatible with 20 mm stand off).

ATA Self-Alignment Feature

Unequal pulling force during testing caused by uneven adhesive bond lines and coating surfaces can result in random, unexplainable readings. To obtain more repeatable and meaningful adhesion measurements, it is imperative that the pulling force applied to the test dolly is uniformly distributed over the surface being tested.

Both the PosiTest AT-M manual and PosiTest AT-A automatic models compensate for misalignment. The self-aligning, quick-coupling actuator and spherical articulating dolly head enable uniform distribution of the pulling force over the surface being tested, preventing a one-sided pull-off.

Memory and Reporting Features

  • Internal memory stores maximum pull-off pressure, rate of pull, test duration and dolly size for 100,000 pulls in up to 1,000 batches
  • Record the results as pass/fail and the nature of fracture – cohesive, adhesive and glue failures
  • Wirelessly connect to your smart device using our free PosiTector App (Apple iOS and Android)
  • WiFi technology wirelessly communicates with PosiSoft.net, downloads software updates and allows access to stored measurement data using standard web browsers
  • PosiSoft USB Drive – stored readings and graphs can be accessed via USB using universal PC/Mac web browsers or file explorers. No software required
  • Compatible wit PosiSoft Desktop, PosiSoft.net and PosiTector App (Apple iOS and Android) software solutions

PosiTector App Features

  • Add images and notes using the camera or keyboard
  • Create customized, professional PDF reports
  • Share, backup, synchronize and report measurement data
  • Auto-pairing Bluetooth (BLE) connection

Touch Screen Display

Use the touch screen to interact with menu options. Swipe horizontally to navigate between views or vertically to move between batch readings. Alternatively, the keypad can be used for navigation and selection.

User adjustable dolly size, pull rate, pull limit and hold time.

Batch summary provides an at-a-glance review of test results.

View test parameters and reading results. Reading is recorded as pass or fail based on set test parameters. The pass/fail results can be revised.

Notes can be added for each reading.

Include a note for a batch (group) of readings.

Record the nature of failure – cohesive, adhesive and glue failures.

Recording the Nature of the Fracture

Upon completion of a pull-off test, the dolly and coated surface should be examined. In addition to pull-off force, many National and International standards such as ASTM D4541 and ISO 4624 require the nature of the fracture to be recorded.

  • Cohesive fracture: fracture occurs within a coating layer (same coating on dolly face and coated surface).
  • Adhesive fracture: fracture occurs at the interface between layers (coating on dolly face differs from surface).
  • Glue failure: visible separation of the glue from itself, the coating or dolly (no coating visible on the dolly face).

The cohesive and adhesive fracture visual analysis can be recorded using the PosiTest AT-A’s keypad or touch screen display. Alternatively, the information can be reported using the PosiTector App.

Fractures are visually estimated and recorded as a percent of each. The two layer example below illustrates a cohesive fracture within coating layer 1 and layer 2 (visually estimated at 50% each). Recorded results are included in reports.

Examples

(based on above five layer illustration)

100% cohesive fracture at D/E coating interface (layer 3/layer 4)

100% cohesive fracture at D/E coating interface (layer 3/layer 4)

70% cohesive failure within layer 1; 30% cohesive within layer 2

70% cohesive failure within layer 1; 30% cohesive within layer 2

Complete Kit

The PosiTest AT kits come complete with Automatic Adhesion Tester, built-in rechargeable NiMH battery with charger, dollies, abrasive pad, cutting tool, glue with mixing sticks and palettes, cotton swabs, USB cable, PosiSoft Software, instruction booklet and video, shoulder strap, Certificate of Calibration traceable to NIST, two-year warranty, and a sturdy, lightweight carrying case.

Item Descrıptıon
ATA20
Positector AT Automatic Adhesion Tester with 20mm Dollies Complete Kit – ATA20A
ATA50
Positector AT Automatic Adhesion Tester with 50mm Dollies Complete Kit – ATA50A-B
ATA50C
Positector AT Automatic Adhesion Tester with 50mm C1583 Kit – ATA50C-B
ATA50T
Positector AT Automatic Adhesion Tester with 50mm2 Tile Kit – ATA50T-B
Accessorıes
CASEATM-P
Pelican Case for PosiTest AT Manual Pull-Off Adhesion Testers
CASEATAB-P
Pelican Case for PosiTest AT Automatic Pull-Off Adhesion Testers
ATADHESIVEKIT
Additional Adhesive Kit – AT-ADHESIVE
TMPLTAS
Drilling Template for 50 mm Dollies – AT-TEMP
AT-Verify
Adhesion Tester Accuracy Verification Kit – ATVERIFY
Conversıon Kıts
AT-20-KIT
Includes 20 mm stand-off, holesaw and 20 test dollies – AT20KIT
AT50CKIT
Includes 50 mm stand-off, holesaw and 12 test dollies – AT50KIT
AT50CKIT
50 mm C1583 Conversion Kit – Includes 50 mm C1583 steel dollies (4), 50 mm diamond grit cutting tool with arbor and 50 mm C1583 stand-off
AT50TKIT
50 mm x 50 mm Tile Conversion Kit – Includes 50 mm x 50 mm steel dollies (4), and 50 mm x 50 mm stand-off
Dollıes
DOLLY10
10mm Dollies – 10 Pack – AT-10
DOLLY14
14mm Dollies – 10 Pack – AT-14
DOLLY20
20mm Dollies – 10 Pack – AT-20
DOLLY50
50mm Dollies – 4 Pack, Requires Standoff Supplied in AT-50-KIT, old pn AT-50
DOLLY50C
50 mm C1583 Dollies – 2 Pack, Requires Standoff Supplied in AT50CKIT
DOLLY50T
50 mm2 Tile Dollies – 4 Pack, Requires Standoff Supplied in AT50TKIT
PLATE50T
50 mm2 Plate – 4 Pack, Requires Standoff Supplied in AT50TKIT
Dolly Multıpacks
DOLLY10APK100
10mm Dollies – 100 Pack
DOLLY14APK100
14mm Dollies – 100 Pack
DOLLY20APK100
20mm Dollies – 100 Pack
DOLLY50APK50
50mm Dollies – 50 Pack, Requires 50mm Standoff Supplied in AT-50A-KIT. Not for use with AT-50C-KIT.

FEATURES

  • Select from four Stand-offs – 20 mm, 50 mm, 50×50 mm Tile and 50 mm C1583
  • Environmentally sealed enclosure – weatherproof, dustproof and shockproof – meets or exceeds IP65
  • Inexpensive, single-use dollies eliminate cleaning for re-use and can be kept as a permanent record
  • Self-aligning aluminum dolly enables accurate measurements on smooth or uneven surfaces
  • 10, 14, 20 or 50 mm dollies maximize capability and measurement resolution across a wide range of bond strengths
  • Calibrated and certified to ±1% accuracy using a NIST traceable load cell
  • Conforms to international standards including ASTM C1583/D4541/D7234/D7522, ISO 4642/16276-1, BS EN 12004-2, AS/NZS 1580.408.5 and others
  • Electronically controlled hydraulic pump automatically applies smooth and continuous pull-off pressure. Greatly reduces user effort and the risk of influencing the pulling process
  • Impact and scratch resistant color touch screen with keypad for operation with or without gloves
  • Built-in rechargeable battery performs over 200 tests per charge. Continue testing with AC power while the battery recharges.
  • Rubberized, shock absorbing grips provide a stable, skid-resistant footing
  • 10, 14, 20 or 50 mm dollies maximize capability and measurement resolution across a wide range of bond strengths. Maximum pull-off pressure by dolly size:
    • 10 mm: 14000 psi (96 MPa)
    • 14 mm: 7000 psi (50 MPa)
    • 20 mm: 3500 psi (24 MPa)
    • 50 mm: 560 psi (3.8 MPa)
  • User selectable measurement units: psi (pounds per square inch), MPa (Megapascal), Nmm2 (Newtons per millimeter square) or Newton (force)
  • User adjustable pull rate, pull limit and hold time
  • Rotating display for horizontal and vertical use
  • Software Updates via web keep your instrument current

FAQ's

Do your instruments require any formal training for use? Do you offer ‘demo’ models?
No. Our instruments are designed for simple operation, feature easy-to-use menus, both full and quick instruction manuals, and helpful videos. In lieu of demonstration models, we provide unlimited technical support via telephone and/or email, and a limited 30-day money back guarantee.

Is the PosiTest AT calibrated at the factory?
The PosiTest AT arrives fully calibrated and ready to measure. A Long-Form Certificate of Calibration traceable to NIST or PTB is included, which documents actual readings taken by your instrument at our calibration laboratory on standards traceable to a national metrology institute. Beware of ‘Certificates’ or ‘Certificates of Conformance’ offered by competitors. These typically do not include actual instrument readings, and are often insufficient to meet common quality requirements.

Is the PosiTest AT portable, and suitable for use in the field?
Absolutely. With an environmentally-sealed, metal enclosure, heavy-duty hydraulic pump and a high grade industrial pressure sensor, both the Manual and Automatic PosiTest AT are built to last. Weatherproof, dustproof and shockproof, they can be used indoors, outdoors and in all types of weather (meets or exceeds IP 65).
For added utility and convenience, PosiTest AT-A Automatic models also include a handy shoulder strap and rubberized grips.

Does the PosiTest AT include steel loading fixtures (dollies)?
The PosiTest AT is supplied with self-aligning dollies that are precision-manufactured from strong and lightweight aluminum alloy (6061-T6). As a lower-cost alternative to steel loading fixtures, factory aluminum dollies are a single-use/consumable item and ideal for keeping as a permanent visual record of testing.

Do you have a recommended adhesive for my particular application?
The ResinLab EP11HT epoxy adhesive supplied with the PosiTest AT is simple to use and suitable for testing a wide range of coating types. In some instances, specialized coatings will require a more specialized adhesive.

Is the PosiTest AT-A more accurate than the PosiTest AT-M?
The certified accuracy of both PosiTest AT models is identical. However, the fully automatic design of the PosiTest AT-A provides improved measurement consistency by eliminating the potential for operator influence from the test process.

What is the difference between the 20mm and the 50mm loading fixtures?
The 50 mm dolly is commonly recommended for use with concrete, wood and composite substrates, and measures coatings with expected adhesion values between 50 psi and 560 psi (50 – 500 psi for AT-M models). The 20 mm dolly is recommended for testing coatings applied to metals or with expected adhesion values greater than 500 psi.

Can I use the PosiTest AT-A on curved surfaces?
Yes. Feedback from our customers is that the PosiTest AT gages are suitable for testing most internal or external pipe applications greater than 200 mm in diameter. In such cases, the maximum glue gap between the surface of the 20 mm dolly and the coating is 0.5 mm. For smaller pipe diameters, depending on the expected pull-off strength of the coating, it may be possible to use a 10 mm or 14 mm dolly. External diameters can be decreased to as low as 50 mm and 100 mm, for the 10 mm and 14 mm dollies, respectively.
Manufacturers do do not provide or support the use of curved dollies for adhesion testing. In addition to affecting the surface area used in calculating pull-off strengths and the direction of the force lines (creating unwanted shear forces), most adhesion testing standards specifically call for the use of flat dollies.

How many measurements can I take with the PosiTest AT-A on a single battery charge?
The rechargeable battery pack (user replaceable) in the PosiTest AT-A can perform over 200 tests on a single charge. Use the included AC adaptor to continue testing as the battery recharges.

What is the lowest adhesion strength that the PosiTest AT-A can measure?
When utilized with a 50mm dolly, the PosiTest AT is in a priming state until reaching a priming pressure of 50 psi. It is only after the priming pressure is reached that the instrument begins calculating and displaying the pull rate.
While it is possible to obtain readings below this priming pressure with the AT-M model, the AT-A automatic does not allow the operator to build priming pressure very slowly and is therefore not suitable for use below the priming pressure of 50 psi.
Note that all reported adhesion values (including those obtained below the priming pressure) are subject to the PosiTest AT gage’s full-scale accuracy of ± 1% (± 30 psi, AT-M; ± 35 psi, AT-A).

Is there a faster curing adhesive than the epoxy supplied with the PosiTest AT?
The versatile epoxy adhesive supplied with the PosiTest AT reaches full cure within 24 – 48 hours. Operators who require faster cure times should evaluate other adhesives for their compatibility with both the coating being tested and our aluminum test dolly. Cyanoacrylate (‘super glue’) type adhesives are often sufficient for lower pull-off strengths.

Can I use the PosiTest AT on flexible or brittle substrates?
The PosiTest AT is designed for use with rigid, structural substrates. A flexible substrate can adversely impact test accuracy and repeatability. Furthermore, use of the PosiTest AT for measuring the adhesion of coatings applied to a brittle substrate typically results in the destruction of the substrate material, making it challenging to quantify the coating-substrate bond strength.

VIDEO

DOWNLOADS

Positest ATA Brochure

Positest ATA Quick Guide