BS 3900-D5

Introducing BS 3900-D5 – Industrial Physics

BS 3900-D5 is a global BSI paint testing method that helps you to measure the specular gloss of non-metallic paint films at 20°, 60° and 85° angles.

The British Standards (BS) are the testing standards produced by the BSI Group, which is incorporated under a royal charter, formally designated as the national standards body (NSB) for the UK.  

A number of paint testing committees were involved in preparing the BS 3900-D5 testing methods for gloss testing including: the British Coatings Federation, the Paint Research Association, the Ministry of Defense and the Oil and Color Chemists’ Association. 

Gloss testing helps you to measure fast and simple accurate gloss levels on any flat surface. Whether it be paper, paint, plastic, wood or any other material.  

The BS 3900-D5 specular gloss testing standard contents

Within the BS 3900-D5 specular gloss testing standard you will find the following contents included: 

• BS 3900-D5 specular gloss testing scope 
• Sampling of liquid paints  
• Sampling of coated substrates  
• Preparation of test panels 
• Calibration of the glossmeter 
• The gloss testing procedure 
• Advice on BS 3900-D5 test report. 

Industrial Physics glossmeters and paint testing solutions

So, how can Industrial Physics improve your BS 3900-D5 specular gloss testing? 

TQC Sheen Glossmeter – Sologloss & Polygloss 

The TQC Sheen Glossmeter allows the user to measure fast and simple accurate gloss levels on any flat surface. Whether it be paper, paint, plastic, wood or any other material. No special training or skills are required. Just place the gauge, press the scan button and read the values. Template options can also provide non-flat surfaces and small test areas. 

Need gloss testing solutions? Get in touch

We’ve learnt a thing or two about paper and board testing over the decades. Now Industrial Physics is recognized as a brand that likes to bring new, innovative glossmeters to market. 

We like to share our knowledge and we’re here to help you to answer your questions about gloss testing. Across the knowledgebase section of our website we publish lots of blogs on related subjects.   

First up, why not try this blog that gives advice on interpreting a gloss meter reading. Then for something a little different, there’s our environmentally focused article that describes how we shouldn’t gloss over simple sustainability wins. 

If you have any questions about BS 3900-D5 specular gloss testing and how we can help you with other aspects of your paint testing, then just get in touch!  

Your global test and measurement partner for BS 3900-D5