Term: dry film thickness (dft)

Dry Film Thickness (DFT) refers to the thickness of a coating (such as paint) after it has fully dried and cured. It is typically measured in microns (µm) or mils (1 mil = 0.001 inch) and is a critical factor in ensuring the performance, durability, and protective qualities of the coating system.

In the painting and protective coatings industry, especially in commercial and industrial applications, DFT is used to:

• Ensure compliance with manufacturer specifications or project requirements.
• Verify coverage and protection against corrosion, UV, chemicals, or wear.
• Calculate material usage and cost estimates.
• Meet Australian Standards, such as AS/NZS 2312 for protective coatings.

DFT is usually measured using tools like magnetic or ultrasonic thickness gauges after the coating has dried. It differs from Wet Film Thickness (WFT), which is the thickness of the paint immediately after application and before drying.