Tramex Skipper Plus Moisture Meter

Tramex Skipper Plus - Moisture Meter

• Non-destructive detection and measurement of moisture in Wooden boats, GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) boat hulls, wooden parts, components, decks etc.
• Three measurement ranges optimized for testing of different materials such as Hardwood, GRP and Surface moisture.
• Deep signal penetration to detect elevated moisture through most covering and coating materials and deep into the core of composite hulls without having to damage or puncture the material being tested.
• External rubber electrodes in direct contact with material being tested for best sensitivity, repeatability and greater depth of signal penetration.
• Wide range of readings for wood of 5% to 30% on hard wood scale and 0 to 100 on comparative scale for GRP and other materials.
• Large, clear, easy to read display giving meaningful readings.
• Hold function enables user to “freeze” the reading, useful when taking readings in awkward places where the meter face may not be visible.
• High Moisture Audio Warning Tone that can be switched on or off.
• Automatic Power Cutoff switches “Off” when not in use to save battery.

Osmosis in GRP

Osmosis, also known as Gelcoat Blistering, is found in GRP hulls - when moisture soaks into the hull surface, collects between the glassfibre or plastic laminate, resulting in blistering of the gelcoat. Usually found on or below the waterline, Osmosis dramatically reduces the structural strength of the hull and the value of a boat.

Skipper Plus Moisture Meter is used for:

• Early detection before blistering appears.
• Identifying the affected area.
• Monitoring hull during de-humidification and repairs.
• Checking stripped or peeled areas for dryness prior to re-coating.

To achieve a lasting finish and strength of wooden boats and boat parts it is essential to ensure that they are well maintained and do not contain excess moisture. Excess moisture can rot and decay the wood itself.

Moisture in Wood

Moisture can cause peeling and blistering of applied finishes and treatments, newly applied finishes can fail prematurely if the wood it is applied to is not sufficiently dry. Hidden or trapped moisture can lead to mold and biological growth.

The Skipper Plus can be moved across the surface of the boat to moisture survey in a fast and thorough manner, detecting moisture non-destructively through paint and coatings on wood up to a depth of 30mm (1.25”). The Skipper Plus can also be used to detect leaks and trace them to source both above and below decks.