A gloss meter is instrument designed to measure the reflective properties (gloss) of a surface. It quantifies how much light is reflected from material when light strikes its surface at specific angle. The unit of measurement is "Gloss Units" (GU), where higher values indicate shiny surfaces.
A gloss meter is an instrument designed to measure the reflective properties (gloss) of a surface. It quantifies how much light is reflected from a material when light strikes its surface at a specific angle.
Illumination A collimated light source shines onto the test surface at a fixed angle (e.g. 20°, 60°, or 85°).
Detection A sensor, positioned at the mirror‑angle to the light source, measures the intensity of the reflected light.
Calculation The instrument compares the reflected intensity against a reference standard and reports the result in Gloss Units (GU).
Surface Type | Typical GU (60°) |
---|---|
Matte finish | 0 – 10 GU |
Satin finish | 10 – 70 GU |
High‑gloss finish | 70 – 100+ GU |
Gloss meters are essential tools in quality control and R&D to ensure consistency, durability, and visual appeal of coated and polished surfaces.