FAQ - TK11 Chromium-6 Detection Test Kit

2.1 What can the TK11 Chromium-6 Detection Test Kit be used for?

This test kit can be used to detect the presence of chromium-6 on various surfaces, such as paint layers and metals.

Old paint coatings may contain chromium-6 to protect the metal from corroding. The test kit is therefore often used to test if old layers of paint can be safely sanded or ground. Heated metals, often in combination with anti-seize agents, frequently contain chromium-6 on the surface. The test kit is therefore often used for testing heated components in gas turbines, wind turbines, engines, etc.

2.2 Can the TK11 Chromium-6 Detection Test Kit be used by anyone?

2.3 How can I use the TK11 Test Kit to test for the presence of chromium-6?

2.4 Can you use the TK11 Test Kit to detect chromium-6 on metals?

Yes, Mechanics, metal workers, painters or quality employees can use our test kit easily, fast and on the spot, by rubbing a moistened test swab over the metal surface. A red/purple discolouration of the test swab indicates the presence of chromium-6, whereas the test swab remaining orange indicates that no chromium-6 is present.

Example of a stainless steel 304 (A2) bolt and nut with anti-seize paste after heat treatment. The formed yellow/green chromate is clearly visible. The test swab of the TK11™ Chromium-6 Detection Test Kit clearly turns red/purple, indicating that chromium-6 is present.

Example of a zinc chromate coating on a hinge of a fence.

2.5 Do you have any practical tips for using the TK11 Chromium-6 Detection Test Kit?

1. In the case of paint layers: Pre-sanding

Before testing a paint surface, lightly sand it with clean sandpaper. This will expose any chromium-6 present in the paint, resulting in a more intense purple discoloration of the test swab. (Pre-sanding is not required for testing chromium-6 on heated metals).

2. Properly moisten the test swab

Moisten the end of the test swab well in advance with about 6 drops of test liquid so that the end of the test swab is completely wet.

Proper wetting leads to the best test results because then there is sufficient liquid in which the chromium-6 from the paint can dissolve. The bottle of the test kit contains enough liquid.

3. Ensure proper lighting

If there is sufficient light, look at the discoloration of the test swab. For example, outside with daylight, or inside with bright artificial light. Usually the presence of chromium-6 results in a distinct purple discoloration. However, a slight red/purple discoloration of the test swab also indicates that chromium-6 is present in a lower concentration.

2.6 Is there a specification of the test kits?

Frequently asked questions The TK11 - Chromium-6 Detection Test Kit

Frequently asked questions
The TK11 - Chromium-6 Detection Test Kit